environmental management program baker`s

Transcription

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
BAKER’S BAY GOLF AND
OCEAN CLUB
GREAT GUANA CAY
ABACOS, BAHAMAS
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT TEAM
UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI AND COLLEGE OF BAHAMAS
Environmental Management Program
Copyright © 2007
For further information please contact the Environmental Management Team:
Kathleen Sullivan-Sealey, PhD
[email protected]
P.O. Box 249118
Coral Gables, Fl 33124, USA
Lab: 305-284-3013
Reference:
Sullivan-Sealey, K., Cushion, N., Semon, K., Constantine, S. Environmental Management
Program for Baker’s Bay Club. Great Guana Cay, Abaco, Bahamas. University of Miami.
2005.
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. OVERVIEW OF THE BAKER’S BAY CLUB PROJECT
1A: DESCRIPTION OF THE BAKERS BAY RESIDENTIAL RESORT COMMUNITY
1B: ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS OF THE PROPERTY
1C: VISION FOR THE BAKERS BAY DEVELOPMEN
1D: ENVIRONMENTAL MANGEMENT TEAM, SCOPE AND PROJECT
COMMUNICATIONS
1
1
2
3
2. COMPONENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 6
2A: SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
2B: ECOLOGICAL MONITORING PROGRAM (EMPr)
1. Physical and Chemical Abiotic Factors
2. Terrestrial Ecological Monitoring
3. Marine Biotic Communities
4 & 5. Socio-economic influences and Education and outreach analysis
2C: STATUS REPORT APPROACH TO ENVIRONMNTAL MONITORING AND
IMPACT MAPPING
2D: ENVIRONMNTAL MANAGEMENT
1. Solid, hazardous and sewage waste management
2. Water Management and Waste Water Treatment
3. Nursery operations
4. Integrated Pest Management
2E: INCIDENT REPORT AND CLEAR REPORTING RESPONSIBILITIES
6
6
7
13
17
24
26
28
3
34
34
36
39
40
42
ACRONYMS USED IN THIS DOCUMENT
Baker’s Bay Club
Environmental Impact Assessment
Environmental Management Plan
Ecological Monitoring Program
Environmental Management Team
Institute for Regional Conservation
BBC
EIA
EMP
EMPr
EMT
IRC
ii
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.
Figure 3.
Figure 4.
Figure 5.
Figure 6.
Figure 7.
Figure 8.
Figure 9.
Figure 10.
Figure 11.
Figure 12.
Figure 13.
Figure 14.
Figure 15.
Figure 16.
Figure 17.
Figure 18.
Figure 19.
Figure 20.
Outline of the Environmental Management Plan.
Example of coastal buffer zone.
Schematic of ecosystem levels and responses to management. (Adopted
from Cairns et al, 1995).
Example box plots that characterize the near shore water quality from
Lyford Cay, Bahamas.
Groundwater well insertion at Victoria Pond, Great Exuma.
Classes of coastal environments.
An example of shoreline data collected for characterization.
A stressed and polluted seagrass bed.
Benthic flora and fauna community classification.
Example resource value assessment pie chart.
A socio-economic survey distributed by Earthwatch.
Example status report for factors and indicators measured in the ecological
monitoring program.
Marine Status Report
Construction and Development Status Report
Air curtain burner.
Schematic diagram of a phytoremediation wetland.
Nursery site.
Examples from San Francisco’s Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPM)
Baker’s Bay Club Environmental Incident Report.
5
7
9
15
16
18
23
24
25
26
27
28
30
31
35
38
40
41
44
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1.
Table 2.
Table 3.
Environmental Monitoring Program and tentative schedule for
Baker’s Bay Club.
Rare or endangered plants of the Bahamas on the BBC property.
Waste and hazardous material management during construction.
10-12
21-23
34
APPENDICES
Appendix 1.
Appendix 2.
Appendix 3.
Appendix 4.
Appendix 5.
Map of grid system for monitoring.
Map of buffer zones for Baker’s Bay Club.
References for monitoring protocols and procedures.
References on the ecological impacts of development.
Plants found on Bakers Bay Club property listed by nativity, conservation
status and landscape potential.
Appendix 6. Critical Conservation Plants of Baker’s Bay Club
Appendix 7. Epifauna diversity of Great Guana Cay.
Appendix 8. Fish diversity for near shore R.E.E.F counts and beach seines for Great
Guana Cay.
Appendix 9. Near shore macro algae / plant diversity for Great Guana Cay.
Appendix 10. Outline of monthly environmental report for BEST Commission
Appendix 11. Outline of the Baker’s Bay Club Integrated Pest Management Plan.
48
49
50
51
53
65
77
79
80
81
82
iii
Environmental Monitoring Program for Baker’s Bay Club
1. Overview of the Baker’s Bay Club (BBC) Project
A. Description
B. Environmental status of property
C. Vision for development
D. Scope of the Environmental Management Program
E. Environmental Team management and project communications
1A: Description of the Baker’s Bay Club Residential Resort Community
Discovery Land Company (Developer) proposes to develop an intimate resort and residential
community with a golf and marina club (BBC Project) on Great Guana Cay, a northern cay of
the Abacos. Upon approval and completion, BBC will feature:
• Approximately 400 residential units; these units will be a mixture of ocean-front home
sites, golf villas and marina village homes,
• A championship-caliber 18-hole golf course,
• A 180-slip marina for vessels under 60ft,
• Up to 75 villa-style rooms available for rental, and
• A high-amenitized equity club with 400 members.
BBC will feature modern infrastructure and utility systems uniquely designed for a fragile
island ecological system. The developers will allocate land for both conservation of natural
areas and for island-wide logistical support for solid waste processing and transfer,
community meeting facilities, and public beach access. A 92-acre nature preserve will
encompass the mangrove creek complex at the southern end of the property, as well as 60
acres of protected coastal buffer zone.
BBC will have unprecedented infrastructure and support facilities. A centralized sewage
treatment plant, coupled with wastewater gardens will avoid the long-term pollution problems
of on-site disposal (cess pits), and recycle water for golf course irrigation. The housing
development guidelines will maintain the natural beauty of the island by minimizing lawn size
and utilizing native plant corridors to promote wildlife habitat and plant diversity. A state-ofthe-art solid waste transfer station, burning with an air curtain destructor and an on-site
composting station will reduce the volume of wastes to be transferred to land fills, and seek to
recycle as much material as possible.
Short-term and long-term environmental impacts will occur with such a large-scale land
conversions. The developers and the Environmental Management Team (EMT) have
identified areas of concern:
• Loss of local biological diversity and wildlife habitat
• Degradation of habitats for some wildlife species
• Loss of wetlands
• Probability of chronic eutrophication (“nutrification”) stress to near shore marine
communities
1
•
Some chance of small scale fuel spillage and seeps
These impacts are measurable and can be managed within the scope of the mitigation and
environmental management plans.
1B: Environmental Status of the Property
The Great Guana Cay site is already severely impacted by a previous development at the
“Treasure Island Site”. The appendices of the EIA (2004) include a section of news articles
from 1988 and 1989 on the controversies that surrounded the original construction of the
cruise ship resort site and approach channel. The ecological health of the property would have
continued to decline without mitigations. There are significant environmental issues
associated with:
• Unknown material dumped in two landfills
• Invasive alien plants displacing native vegetation
• Invasive alien insects (Lobate Lac Scale Insect) impacting the health of native trees,
especially after hurricane disturbances.
• Erosion of beaches from the removal of dunes and natural vegetation along Bakers
Bay
• Erosion of beaches from Australian pine (invasive alien plants)
• Accumulation of trashes and unregulated dumping
There is no stewardship of the natural resources or management of the property at this time.
Many people, both local residents and visiting yachtsmen, reportedly use the property, yet no
person or organization takes responsibility for management or stewardship of the resources.
As land becomes increasingly scarce in Abacos (and all of The Bahamas), there needs to be an
overall land use plan that manages and sets aside natural areas for tourism, recreation, and
conservation of the natural heritage of the country.
The impacts to the environment will largely be mitigated by attention to detail in the
construction process, continuous monitoring and long-term planning. The BBC site includes
the abandoned Disney Treasure Island cruise ship resort. Treasure Island is about 90 acres of
recently developed, and then abandoned buildings and infrastructure. The Treasure Island
complex includes buried dumpsites, land and sea debris, abandoned fuel tanks, transformers
and hazardous materials that require removal and mitigation. This previous development
introduced invasive alien plant and insect species that now threaten the natural flora and fauna
of the island. Immediate landscape management and coastal stewardship actions are needed to
prevent further degradation of BBC site.
The 7-point proposed mitigation plan includes several restoration components:
1. Cleanup of contaminants at the Treasure Island complex.
2. Restoration of natural dune systems and native vegetation in coastal buffer zone of
Treasure Island complex.
2
3. Removal and management of invasive alien plants along the coastal zone of the entire
project site (especially Australian pine and Hawaiian inkberry).
4. Restore and manage wetlands adjacent to the marina area.
5. Management of wildlife habitat areas, including turtle nesting beaches, white crown
pigeon foraging areas, and neo-tropical migratory bird habitats.
6. Dissemination of information on BBC status and documentation of impacts through a
project web site.
7. Support the creation of an independent foundation for the management of preserved
areas, environmental outreach and education, as well as on-going monitoring of the
site.
The proposed mitigation program is both innovative and ambitious. The environmental
management plan addresses the future challenges of maintaining the ecological integrity of
small island developments.
1C: Vision for the Baker’s Bay Club Development
The Developers will utilize the full resources of its partnerships to ensure the BBC will be a
source of pride for its members and residents, for the Government of The Bahamas and for the
residents of Guana Cay. The Developers will strive to deliver the highest quality development,
including:
• Environmental sensitivity in both practice and outreach educational programs,
• Bahamian-influenced architectural and landscaping styles,
• Materials and infra-structure appropriate for the small island setting,
• Services provided to the resort members and community, and
• Socio-economic integration of BBC with both the local and regional communities.
The design philosophy is to use the best available technologies to construct a residential resort
community with the highest environmental standards and management practices. The
Developers believe that good environmental stewardship will add value to the community, as
well as, protect the property from storm damage and erosion. BBC is compatible with the
pattern of development of second homes and vacation homes throughout the cays and
mainland of Abaco. The development creates a variety of jobs both on-site and in Marsh
Harbour.
1D: Environmental Management Team (EMT), Scope and Project Communications
BBC is a unique development project in the transparency of its site management and
environmental management and reporting. To achieve the environmental goals of the project,
the Developers have established a unique relationship with the Environmental Management
Team (EMT) from the University of Miami. The Developers have demonstrated their
dedication to an environmentally sound development and conceded some autonomy for the
EMT to be responsible for the EMP and related implementation, monitoring, reporting and
proposal of mitigation and corrective actions. BBC will be an experiment in sustainability for
3
small island developments. Clearly, local residents or Bahamians in general would not
appreciate having “experimental” approaches to development of their natural resources.
However, the aim of the experiment is to provide a truthful documentation of the real
ecological costs of resort development.
This environmental management plan outlines a ‘model’ with four components for private
land stewardship in the country, particularly for private resort communities with technologies
and protocols appropriate for use in national parks and publicly held lands (Crown land). The
‘model’ components include:
1. Clearly articulated and measurable environmental goals.
2. Educational outreach programs and training material for
•
Contractors, construction crews and all on-site workers
•
Local communities
•
Regional Non-government environmental organizations (e.g. Friends of the
Environment)
•
Local businesses and business leaders
3. Clear management and project communications and reporting with:
• Published “Chain of Command” for site management
• Documentation and accountability to EIA policies
• Incident reporting and management plan
• Clear reporting responsibilities
4. Independent reporting and verification, with monitoring data available in a “status
report” format.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the BBC resort community development on
Great Guana Cay, Abacos, outlined an environmental management plan (EMP) to monitor,
regulate and mitigate construction and development impacts. Research (Dipper, 1998) stresses
the need for post-EIA evaluation, to evaluate adherence and success in meeting the stated
goals and objectives. Accordingly, the EMT, in partnership with the developers, present a
comprehensive program to monitor and evaluate adherence to the EIA, measure impacts to the
terrestrial and marine resources, as well as, to mitigate pre-existing perturbations.
The EMP consists of ecological and environmental monitoring protocols and research
objectives, mitigation plans and reporting and information dissemination protocols (Figure 1).
Impact matrices and ‘status reports’ (Figure 11) will be used to gauge and measure adherence
to goals and objectives. Additionally, a socio-economic component was incorporated to
evaluate and review effects of BBC on local communities and economy of the Abaco islands.
Within the Project team, the EMT will play an active role of consultation, reporting and
review. Monthly reports will be given to the BEST Commission (Appendix 11) and monthly
status reports with impact maps (Section 2C) will be disseminated to pertinent groups. The
principle groups involved in the BBC project are shown in Figure 2. Appendix 1 outlines the
permitting requests and relevant governmental and local agencies and Appendix 2 provides
the contact information for those pertinent to the management plan.
4
Figure 1. Outline of the Environmental Management Plan (EIA, 2004).
Environmental
Management
Plan
Outreach and
Education
Monitoring
Programs
Reporting and
Dissemination
Website
Great Guana
Cay Foundation
Construction:
Housing, Marina
and Golf Course
Ecological
Environmental
2. Components of the Environmental Management Plan
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Scope of the Environmental Management Plan1
Ecological Monitoring Program
Status report approach to environmental monitoring
Environmental Management: Construction Phase
Incident reporting and clear reporting responsibilities
2A: Scope of the Environmental Management Plan
The ecological and environmental goals for BBC are (EIA submitted 2004):
1. To maintain viable populations of over 80% of the existing plant species
2. To maintain representation of all the natural vegetation communities on the island
3. To maintain water quality parameters in coastal groundwater and near shore marine
waters at pre-construction levels.
4. To enhance wildlife habitat quality in the coastal zone, wetlands and preserve areas,
with measurable increases in targeted conservation species.
5. To maintain coastal stability with the measurable maintenance and/or restoration of
beaches, and aid natural recovery of beaches from storm disturbances.
1
The EMP encompasses two distinct management components: an Ecological and an Environmental. The term ‘Ecological’
refers to the natural and social environment and landscape, the term ‘Environmental’ refers to waste management,
composting, water management, chemical/fungicide management, pest management, etc.
5
The ecological monitoring program consists of established parameters to monitor, measure
and continually assess whether BBC is successfully meeting the environmental goals and
objectives. A grid system (Appendix 2) has been developed for the property and buffer zones
(Figure 3, Appendix 3) have been established to help monitor and maintain these goals. In
addition to the monitoring plan an on-site native plant nursery will be established to salvage
transplants and restore necessary areas.
To meet the ecological and environmental goals it will be necessary to mitigate pre-existing
disturbances onsite. Impacts and deteriorations to the natural resources of the property due to a
former Disney resort include:
• Abandoned structures
• Abandoned hazardous materials
• Degradation to the adjacent reefs from continual channel dredging and a former
dolphin pen
• Marine debris and an abandoned dilapidated dock
• Australian pine invasion, which is leading to beach and dune erosion
Chapters five and six of the EIA address disposal procedures and mitigation options for these
perturbations.
Figure 3. Example of coastal buffer zone.
Example of coastal buffer
zone delineation along
low energy rocky shore of
the BBC property – this
buffer zone is
incorporated into the
planning process, and
delineated with protective
fencing during
construction
6
2B: Ecological Monitoring Program
The development of an ecological monitoring program is a three-step process (Maddox et al.
1995).
1. Understanding the ecosystem patterns and processes of the system.
2. Incorporating management and conservation goals into the program to evaluate
effectiveness.
3. Determining the best indicators to evaluate the goals (Table 1).
Several definitions need to be provided before developing a framework for evaluating the
status of ecological communities. The scientific community is continuously learning more
about the ecological processes linking land and marine organisms, species and natural
communities. Marine and terrestrial communities shift spatially over geologic time in
response to rising and falling seas, natural disasters, but persist over hundreds of thousands of
years as an assemblage of species. Healthy terrestrial and reef systems will experience
periodic changes in abundance, diversity and productivity; diurnal, tidal and seasonal changes
in water flow and the physical characteristics of seawater are part of the dynamics of a normal
functioning system. Even perturbations such as hurricanes and large storms should not
compromise the integrity of a healthy natural system. Natural systems are characterized by
their stability, resistance to change, and resilience in the recovery from disturbances.
There are four types of human perturbations to natural systems:
• Harvesting of resources
• Pollutant and contaminant discharges
• Physical restructuring, and
• Introduction of exotic species.
The symptoms of ecosystem degradation refer to visible or measurable changes. Symptoms
can include loss of species abundance or diversity, increase in invasive species, declines in
fish abundance, increase in vegetation or coral diseases, or algae blooms on reefs. Symptoms
may or may not be linked to human activities, but reflect observations of apparent change in
the ecosystem structure and function. These apparent changes could have natural causes, but
resource managers are often asked to make long-term comprehensive management decisions
without corroborative evidence (Grumbine, 1994). Thus, the controversies in interpreting
symptoms of ecosystem degradation stem from lack of information on the relationship
between symptoms, stressors and sources. The stressors are the impacts resulting from human
activity, which, in turn affect organisms and ecological processes. Chronic stressors are often
the most difficult to identify, and usually impact large spatial areas. An example would be the
long-term leaching of nutrients from septic systems into a bay or lagoon; changes would be
gradual over many years.
Finally, sources of ecosystem degradation refer to the human activity at the root of the
stressors impacting the environment. Land-use change and urban growth all underlie humanbased sources of ecosystem stress. Assuming that sustainable resource use is achievable, the
natural world should be managed in such a way that these threats and impacts are minimized.
7
For example, at critical thresholds of development, the use of advanced wastewater treatment
systems to remove nutrients before they enter the coastal environment should be advocated.
The scenario throughout the wider Caribbean has been a conscious choice not to take
advantage of advanced wastewater treatment technologies (Section D), partly reflecting
economics, lack of political will or "out-of-sight, out-of-mind" mentality. The increase in
coastal populations without adequate wastewater treatment infrastructure has lead to ground
water pollution, coastal nutrification and significant biological impacts on natural
communities like coral reefs. Sustainable development rhetoric suggests that we can choose
our activities and patterns of development to eliminate the sources of ecological degradation.
The EMP for BBC has been developed to minimize the sources on-site and the Ecological
Monitoring Program (EMPr) (Table 1) has been developed to monitor factors and indicators
which can measure how successful BBC is in meeting the prescribed environmental goals.
Also, clear, quantitative thresholds levels (desired ecological status) have been determined for
indicators based on the baseline conditions of the property. The EMPr takes a holistic
approach, looking at many terrestrial and marine components to measure effects of the
precautions taken and to interpret ecological changes possibly due to the construction of BBC.
The EMPr will monitor four main categories (Table 1):
1. Physical and chemical abiotic factors (terrestrial and marine)
2. Terrestrial Biotic Communities
4. Socio-economic and Education and Outreach influences
(Detailed standardized protocols, materials and methods of the Ecological Monitoring
Program are described in a separate protocol manual.)
Monitoring and management involves systematic long-term data collection and analysis to
measure the state of the resource, detect changes over time, and determine and implement
corrective actions/mitigations if necessary (Figure 4). Detecting such changes will guide
management decisions, and be used to evaluate ecological and environmental the success of
BBC. The frequency of monitoring and tentative schedule for 2005 is in Table 1. Appendix 3
lists references for monitoring protocols and procedures. Terrestrial surveys will be aided by
aerial flights. Standard reef monitoring procedures will be implemented near shore. Water
quality equipment will include a Hydrolab and permanent data loggers (Hydrolab datasond
4A) and sediment (toxicity) samples (land and water) will be processed. Also, two
meteorological weather stations will be installed on the property for continuous rainfall and
temperature data near the marina and at the northern end of the property.
8
Figure 4. Schematic of ecosystem levels and responses to management. (Adopted from
Cairnes et al, 1995)
ECOSYSTEM
Range of historical
variability
Desired Ecological
Environmental Status
(Goals)
Present
Baseline
Conditions
Stressors
and symptoms
Management /
Mitigations
Time
9
Table 1. Ecological Monitoring Program and schedule for Baker’s Bay Club.
Environmental Monitoring- Great Guana Cay
Scale of impact and
monitoring
Category
Factors
Indicators
Source of Impact
Impact
1. Physical and
chemical
1.1. Water - Ground and
Nearshore
Ph, DO,Phosphates,
Nitrates coliform, stable
isotopes
Fertilizer (landscaping), improper
underground septic and disposal
pits, house chemicals, oil and gas
These levels will increase with
disturbance, altering ecology if Island, regional, country
too high
Quarterly
1.2.Sediments
Sedimentation rates
nearshore and offshore
Dredging, plant removal and
landscape alteration
disturbance, altering ecology if Island to regional
too high
Intensively for month to get
natural rate, then ongoing
during dredging and major
construct
1.3. Pollutants
Metals in soils: Methal
Mercury, Organo
phosphates, PAH's
Oil, gas
disturbance, altering ecology if Island to regional
too high
Quarterly
1.4 Meteorology
Rainfall patterns,
temperature, wind,
humidity
Weather conditions can exacerbate
environmental condition
Fluxes in these indicators will
influence ecological
communities
Continous- on-site weather
station
2.1. Plant Diversity
Species abundance,
diversity, rarity, quality,
invasives, new exotic
species, increase in exotic
abundance
Construction and habitat alteration,
importation of exotics with
Loss of plants (extirpation),
Island
machinery, soil, contruction
species habitats, coastal erosion,
materials, nursery and nursery stock
2.2. Habitats
Groundwater changes, airflow
Species turnover, structural
changes, extirpation of pollinators,
changes, lack of
chnges in island's microclimate
regeneration, mortality, soil
(soil, water, nutrients, humidity,
erosion
wind)
Loss of natural vegetation
cover, erosion, species loss,
wildlife loss,
Island
Ongoing during construction,
then biannually
2.3. Land Conversion
Vegetation coverage,
Construction alteration, postdisturbance, loss of
construction habitat alteration on
vegetation buffers, species
home lots
loss
Loss of plants, species habitats,
Island
coastal erosion
then biannually
2.4. Preserve Areas
Encroachment, plant
mortality
Construction alteration, tree and
other plant cutting, hebicide use,
sprinkler system intrusion
Loss of species diversity, loss
ecosystem sustainability,
increased storm vulnerability
Island
then biannually
2.5. Landscaping
Species use, maintenance
needs, invasiveness,
undercutting natural
vegetation buffers
Increase in exotic plant
Improper use of palette, excessive abundance, hybridization with
watering, excessive fertilizing, use native plants, loss of habitats,
and escape of prohibited species
coastal erosion, decreased
hurricane resistance
Island
then biannually
2. Biotic - Land
Island to regional
Monitoring Frequency
then biannually
3. Biotic- Sea
4. Socio-economic
5. Outreach success
Improper species selection, lack of
Creation on non-sustainable
diversity in planting materials, lack
habitats, increase of abundance Island
of succession, invasion of exotic
of exotic plant species
species, invasion of weedy species
2.6. Restoration
Species use, maintenance
needs, invasiveness
3.1. Fish
Diversity, Trophic
sedimentation (construction) and
structure, Size frequency of
runoff from pollution (fertilizers,
selected fish and abundance
oil, gas)
of juveniles
Increased levels of pollution,
sedimentation and runoff may
decrease diversity and
island, regional
juveniles, alter trophic structure
(case study species- Hamlets)
Biannually- seasonally
3.2. Corals (Nearshore)
growth rates, recruitment,
changes in diversity and
abundance, physical signs runoff from pollution (fertilizers,
of stress/disease, symbiotic oil, gas)
algae
Increase levels of pollutants
may decrease growth, reduce
abundance and diversity of
species, contribute to poor
island, regional
health (increased disease,
change in 'good' algae, swollen
polyps and increased mucus)
3.3.Benthos (nearshore)
Macroinvertebrate diversity
and abundance
oil, gas)
may change community to more
island, regional
pollutant tollerant "weedy"
species
3.4. Corals and Benthos
(Offshore)
Coral diversity, benthic
composition, disease,
recruitment
oil, gas)
may decrease diversity and alter
benthic composition (more
island, regional
algae, less corals), reduced
recruitment
3.5. Algae
abundance, diversity
oil, gas)
Increased levels of pollution,
sedimentation and runoff may
lead to decrease in diversity
4.1. Surveys
Income from tourism and
fishing
During construction and after
4.2. Business review
Income
island, regional
Change in income from tourism
island, regional
and/or fishing catch
Change in income and/or
island, regional
tourism
then biannually
Annually
Annually
4.3. New house
Housing density,
construction, Housing now,
construction impacts
Housing per year
Change in income and/or
tourism
island, regional
Annually
5.1. Comminity Perception attitudes and thoughts of
Surveys
development
Construction and Mediation of
Impacts
Change to positive feelings
island, regional
Annually
2. Biotic - Land
3. Biotic- Sea
4. Socioeconomic
5. Outreach
success
3.1. Fish
3.2. Corals
(Nearshore)
3.3.Benthos
(nearshore)
3.4. Corals and
Benthos (Offshore)
3.5. Algae
4.1. Surveys
4.2. Business review
4.3. New house
construction,
Housing now,
Housing per year
5.1. Community
Perception Surveys
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
Nov-06
Oct-06
√
√
√
√
Sep-06
√
Aug-06
√
Jul-06
Apr-06
Mar-06
Feb-06
Jan-06
Dec-05
Nov-05
Oct-05
Sep-05
Aug-05
Jul-05
√
Jun-06
1.1. Water - Ground
and Nearshore
1.2.Sediments
1.3. Pollutants
1.4 Meteorology
2.1. Plant Diversity
2.2. Habitats
2.3. Land
Conversion
2.4.Preserve Areas
2.5. Landscaping
2.6. Restoration
Jun-05
Factors
May-06
1. Physical and
chemical
May-05
Category
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
12
1. Physical and chemical abiotic factors
Abiotic factors including nutrient levels, water quality parameters and pollutants will be
monitored (Table 1). Terrestrial pollutants have already been found on the property from
the former Disney resort and will be mitigated and cleaned. Water quality concerns need
to be assessed by addressing two questions: what are the baseline physical characteristics
of coastal waters and what are the baseline conditions of adjacent near shore environment
and coral reefs? Water quality, in effect, controls which plants and animals can grow in
near shore marine environments. Algae and seagrasses are really the products of water
quality history. The abundance and species of algae and seagrass growing on the seabed
define the marine habitat, and we want to know, “Has this community changed as a
result of human alterations of the adjacent land?”
There are three concepts to understanding the land-sea links on coastal islands:
• First: Water is the vital ingredient for all living organisms. Water moves over the
planet in a hydrological cycle from air to land to sea. Water falls to the earth's
surface as precipitation, enters surface waters (e.g. streams and rivers) and
groundwater, and then runs into the ocean. Evaporation returns water to the
atmosphere. Water is a powerful solvent and carrier. As water moves through the
hydrological cycle, it transports salts, nutrients, and organic material from land to
sea. Water is the medium for life in the ocean, thus all marine organisms are
sensitive to key physical attributes of seawater: temperature, salinity, dissolved
oxygen, turbidity, and inorganic nutrients. Human activities on land, in terms of
urban development and disposal of sewage, impact the water quality of the coastal
waters.
• Second, the islands are low-lying and composed of very porous limestone rock.
There is a conspicuous absence of surface fresh waters (no large rivers or lakes).
The bulk of the fresh water is found underground in freshwater lenses, trapped by
less porous layers of rock. All islands have underlying porous rocks with salt
water. Anything dumped into or on to the ground can and will end up in the sea.
Concerns about coastal water quality are typically approached from a public
health perspective. Coastal waters can become contaminated with sewage and
human effluents through inadequate or failed sewage disposal systems. The
Bahamas Department of Environmental Health monitors wells and beaches for the
presence of fecal colliform, bacteria. These are indicators of leakage of human
sewage into the coastal waters, which presents a serious health threat to humans.
Even before sewage and nutrient seepage reaches a level sufficient to register a
human health concern, these pollutants are already changing the ecology and
health of coastal marine plants and animals.
• Third, the symptoms of ecosystem degradation refer to visible or measurable
changes. The symptoms of water quality degradation include algae blooms, dieoff of seagrasses, fish kills, coral bleaching or changes in the abundance of sea
life such as fish or lobsters. Symptoms may or may not be linked to human
activities, but reflect observations of apparent change in the ecosystem structure
and function. Thus, the controversies in interpreting symptoms of ecosystem
degradation stem from lack of information on the relationship between symptoms,
stressors and source (Sullivan et al. 1996).
13
Concerns about coastal water quality are typically approached from a public health
perspective. Coastal waters can become contaminated with sewage and human effluents
through inadequate or failed sewage disposal systems. Even before sewage and nutrient
seepage can cause a human health concern, these pollutants are likely changing the ecology
and health of coastal marine plants and animals (Section D addresses waste management).
There is a conspicuous absence of surface fresh waters (no large rivers or lakes). Most of the
surface water on land occurs in brackish or ephemeral ponds. The bulk of the fresh water is
found underground in freshwater lenses, trapped by less porous layers of rock. Very little
fresh water appears to be trapped in a lens o the BBC property. There are numerous brackish
water and seasonal wetlands, but the geology and size of the island precludes any large lens
development. Where freshwater is available, groundwater wells will be installed. The EMT
will monitor the groundwater wells on the property, using stable isotope analysis and water
quality parameters.
Data analysis
a. Water quality
The water quality will be addressed by the monitoring of abiotic factors:
• Temperature
• Salinity
• Inorganic nutrients
• Dissolved oxygen and
• Turbidity
In general, an increase in inorganic nutrients and turbidity and a decrease in dissolved
oxygen can be viewed as a negative impact on water quality, leading to eutrophication. Water
quality equipment will include a Hydrolab and permanent data loggers (Hydrolab datasond
4A) and sediment (toxicity) samples (land and water) will be processed. Also, a
meteorological weather stations will be installed on the property for continuous rainfall and
temperature data.
Monitoring water quality over daily, tidal and seasonal cycles will be critical for
characterizing natural variability in both ground water (fresh to brackish) and the near shore
marine waters. Specific monitoring will also be focused during and post marina construction.
Sediment, turbidity and signs of eutrophication will be closely monitored via permanent data
loggers, sediment traps and construction status reports (Section 2C). Long term data loggers
produce comprehensive dataset to plot box plots (Figure 5). The larger the box, the more
variability occurs at a particular site. This variability in temperature in coastal waters over a
tidal cycle can be used to evaluate flushing or circulation patterns. Changes in these
variability patterns come from human alterations of the island hydrological cycles and
processes. Water quality monitoring and analysis will be monitored and compared to
standards for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the Southeast Environmental
Research Center (http://serc.fiu.edu/wqmnetwork/FKNMS-CD/index.htm).
14
Figure 5b. Example box plots that characterize the near shore water quality from Lyford Cay,
Bahamas. These samples are taken from a relatively enclosed bay with large private homes along
the shoreline. The water quality has become a concern to residents because of the overgrowth of
algae, plankton blooms leading to “greenish” water, and bad smell in hot summer months. The
variability of parameters such as Salinity and Conductivity can be directly tied to discharge events
from private residences in this area. Examples include discharge from swimming pools and holding
tanks.
b. Ground water
Groundwater monitoring is accomplished with a YSI -85 environmental probe. On a
tidal cycle sampling plan, all wells are sampled intensively for a two-week period every
quarter. Additional sampling occurs after rainfall events and storms. Temperature,
salinity, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and pH are recorded. Water samples are
retrieved for Particulate organic carbon (POC), Dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN)
and Total nitrogen (TN). After rainfall events, biomarkers will be used to study flux
rates of material away from the well. Groundwater sampling programs can help establish
the effectiveness of landscape management practices, and detect early threats of
eutrophication to nearshore marine environments.
15
Figure 6. Groundwater well insertion at Victoria Pond, Great Exuma. Ground
water wells are installed and then sampled to examine the flux of nutrients from the
coastal zone into the near shore marine communities. Above a well is being installed
in a large coastal wetland.
c. Stable isotope analysis
In nature, elements consist of atoms of different mass called isotopes. During the
evaporation and condensation of water, the concentration of oxygen and hydrogen
isotopes that make water molecules undergo small changes. Modern instruments and
testing can measure these with great exactness. The history and pathway of water in
different parts of the hydrological cycle can be followed by the abundance of the stable
heavy isotopes of hydrogen (2H) called deuterium, and oxygen (18O). In this way, water
from different environments develops isotopic "fingerprints" with which it can be
identified and its origins traced.
These isotopes are carried into groundwater by infiltrating rain and can be measured with
specialized, sensitive equipment. Knowing the "half-life" (time it takes for the element to
decay by 50%) of isotopes allows a measurement of their concentrations to be interpreted
as an "age", or residence time, of groundwater. Residence time indicates the
replenishment rate as well as the rate of movement of groundwater. So, isotope
techniques can assess the vulnerability of groundwater to pollution from the surface by
determining how rapidly it moves and where it is being recharged. Surface sources of
pollution can then be determined, e.g. natural, industrial, agricultural, or domestic.
Isotope techniques can also identify developing pollution, providing an early warning.
16
Isotope techniques:
•
•
•
•
•
can determine the origins and ages of different water bodies;
can provide an estimate of the degree of mixing;
can determine the location and proportion of water recharge;
can indicate the velocity of ground water flow;
can identify and track pollutants.
Isotope analysis will be done in terrestrial locations (especially those in proximity to the
golf course), groundwater wells and the near shore waters to track water residence time
and to detect pollutants.
d. Multivariate analysis
The goals of this monitoring are to look for and prevent long-term chronic changes to
coastal systems. Long-term changes in environments stem from climate change (which
can be natural, though humans can alter global climate patterns) and gradual changes in
coastal water due to increases in coastal nutrient loading, loss of coastal vegetation and
increased sedimentation with development. Changes in water quality can be represented
by ecological community changes. Water quality analysis will be coupled with baseline
conditions which include: a) prior land usage, b) baseline data on epifauna, c) macroalgae
and, d) fish diversity (section 3) and abundance.
2. Terrestrial Ecological Monitoring
The terrestrial factors being monitored will look at changes in vegetation diversity,
abundance of species and rare species (Section 2D, Part 3), land cover alterations and
exotic and introduced species. The analysis species distribution and abundance will be
put into context of the coastal/terrestrial environment in which they occur (Figure 7).
The BBC property and its coastal environments are dynamic and distinct. These
communities and species have been ranked in terms of the occurrence of rare species
within them, ability to resist change and persist and uniqueness as habitat for animal
species. Also, maintenance of the Buffer zones will be monitored in monthly status
reports (section 2C). The buffer zones are critical to the stability of the island systems
and health of the near shore environment. Additionally, Appendix 7 lists Critical
Conservation plants for BBC and a ranking system of removal and transplantation.
17
Figure 7. Classes of coastal environments.
CLASSES OF COASTAL ENVIRONMENTS
A1) Beaches and Beach Strands: This class consists of high relief beaches and beach strand
communities that are shrub or herb-dominated, with varying widths and heights of dune systems.
The high relief beach strands slope to Uniola paniculata herb-shrublands, then to lowland
subtropical evergreen forests/woodlands/shrublands (Sealey et al.1999).
High Energy Soft Sediment Coastal Zones: an element
common to beaches is the sand dune. The coastal dunes that
build up behind a beach are inhabited by salt-tolerant plants
including railroad vine, sea purslane, stunted sea grape, and
the exotic causuarina (Sealey 1990). The dune vegetation
plays an important role in fixing the soft sand sediments and
preventing the spread of sandy sediments inland (Sealey
1990). The dunes themselves store fresh water and provide
a natural sea wall against storms (Sealey 1990).
Beaches can be described as HIGH or LOW relief, based on
the shore profile. Beaches can also be described with the
following modifiers:
a) with or without beachrock underlying sand, b)
with or without exotic plant invasion, c)
with or without offshore reefs, barrier islands or tombolos
On some soft sediment coastal zones, such as those of
North Bimini, the occurrence of beachrock can be
observed. Beachrock is the result of sand slightly below
the surface being cemented into rock; it becomes exposed
on coastlines when the sandy surface of the beach is
stripped away (B.E.S.T. 2002). Pores are common and
large in beachrock, which weathers to form a smooth
surface. Most beachrock has a sandy color, although the
presence of blue-green encrusting algae can cause the
surface to be stained black (Sealey 1985). There are three
main components to beach rock: 1) boulders of rock from
the cliff bordering the beach, 2) conch shells, coral, and
glass debris, and 3) fine sand, but it may also include
mollusks, Halimeda, coral, and encrusting algal debris as
well (Multer 1971).
Cementation most likely occurs when there are alternating
wet and dry saltwater spray conditions, with skeletal grains
providing nuclei for precipitation from a supersaturated
calcium carbonate solution (Multer 1971). Sealey (1985)
noted that beachrock can form rather rapidly, as modern rubbish such as bottles and cans can be
found in some deposits.
18
B) Low Energy Soft Sediment Coastal Zones: are low relief beach strands, coastal wetlands, and
mangrove communities. Examples of this type of coastal zone can be found in western Andros
Island and the southwestern parts of New Providence.
Beaches and Beach Strands- Low relief beaches can
be present in two forms: a) beach to lowland
subtropical evergreen forest/woodland/shrubland
transition, and b) beach to palm dominated lowland
subtropical evergreen shrubland transition (Sealey et
al. 1999).
As with high energy beaches and beach strands, dunes
and beachrock can be observed (refer to A1 for
details). Typically on low-energy beaches, there are
soft muds and fine sediment communities offshore.
The beach is very flat and often large areas are
exposed at low tides.
Mangrove Communities: Although their specific
structural and functional characteristics may vary greatly, mangroves are generally found in areas
sheltered from high-energy waves. Coastal mangrove areas can be divided into three subclasses
based upon their hydrology and geomorphology:
Overwash and creek systems: Water flow and
nutrient input is high and interstitial salinities
are variable with evaporation and rainfall, which
mean that these areas have the highest degree of
structural development (Cintron-Molero and
Schaeffer-Novelli 1992).
Fringe: Fringe mangroves occur along the
seaward edges of protected shorelines or around
overwash islands (Cintron-Molero and
Schaeffer-Novelli 1992). Fringe areas are
characterized by salinity levels similar to
seawater and lower nutrient input. Fringe
forests can develop in dry environments, backed
by hypersaline lagoons, salt flats, or
xeromorphic vegetations.
Isolated and inland Basin: Basin forests
develop over inland basins influenced by
seawater and occupy the highest levels subject to tidal intrusion. Tidal flushing is less frequent
than in fringes or overwash creek systems, and is sometimes limited to the highest tides of the
year.
Mangrove communities can serve many purposes, including: removal of excess nutrients and
heavy metals from runoff, storm buffers, sites of fish recruitment, nurseries and feeding, bird
sanctuaries, honey bee havens, and homes for orchids and bromeliads (B.E.S.T. 2002).
C) High Energy Consolidated Sediment Coastal Zones: are high relief rocky shores and cliffs,
such as the cliffs along the ocean side of Eleuthera and Clifton, New Providence. Such cliffs are
close to the ocean or deep-water channels and get little or no protection from shallow water or
coral reefs, which means that the waves strike the coast with full force (Sealey 1990).
19
The energy rocky cliffs of The Bahamas can be up to
8 meters in height, but most are between 4 and 6
meters high. The vegetation along theses high
energy rocky shores is often dwarfed or stunted due
to continuous salt spray and wind
D2) Low Energy Consolidated Sediment Coastal
Zones: are also called low relief rocky shores.
These rocky shores demonstrate a wide, long
transition from an evergreen shrubland to a
lowland subtropical evergreen forest/ woodland/
shrubland (Sealey et al. 1999). Examples of this
kind of coastal zone can be found along much of
the developed shores of New Providence off
Eastern Road.
These rocky shores have a clearly visible tidal
zonation of white, gray, black and yellow zones.
These zones provide the habitat for many intertidal
snails, mussels and crabs.
Data analysis
a. Floristic Inventory
A Floristic Inventory, developed by the Institute for Regional Conservation (IRC) will be
used to gauge terrestrial impacts and determine mitigation options. IRC is a leader in plant
conservation planning and has established floristic databases and inventories for the U.S.
National Parks of South Florida and Puerto Rico (see www.regionalconservation.org/). The
Floristic Inventory of Great Guana Cay will be a critical component in monitoring the short
and long-term impacts of development on the terrestrial ecosystems of Great Guana Cay.
20
The Inventory is being prepared by preparing plant inventories (vegetation list Appendix 4)
(by habitat) for each 200m x 200m monitoring grid (Appendix 2) that cover the island. Each
plant species in each cell, in each habit, is recorded. A percent cover of each species is then
estimated.
Upon completion of the baseline inventory a Floristic Quality Index will be prepared. A
coefficient of conservatism will be given to each plant species. This coefficient is a range
from 0-10. The value of 10 is given to species that tolerate essential no unnatural
disturbance. Values of 0 are given to species that are found exclusively to species that are
only found in areas of high disturbance. All exotic plant species are ranked as 0. Species are
given ranks between 0 and 10 based upon their tolerance for disturbance. For each cell a
baseline Floristic Quality score can be calculated by averaging the coefficients for each
species. During and after development resurveys will be done in each cell and a new score
calculated based on the species that have colonized or disappeared from each cell. Changes
in the score will indicate the direction and degree of changes in the quality of the plant
assemblages in each cell.
Table 2 highlights critical plant species to be protected by transplantation (if necessary) and
then replanted within the BBC development itself and the preserve. One species of critical
importance is the orchid Oncidium sasseri. This orchid is endemic to the northern Bahamas
and is very rare. Orchids overall are poorly protected throughout the islands, with poaching
and habitat destruction being major causes of species loss. CITES2 species include all cacti
and orchids, while Swietenia mahagoni (mahogany) and Guapira discolor (blolly) are protected
species in the Bahamas. The other endemics on the list occur throughout the Bahamas.
Table 2. Rare or endangered plants of the Bahamas on the BBC property.
CITES
Bahamas Northern
Description
Full Name
Endemic Bahamas
Yes
Ardisia
escallonioides
Borrichia frutescens
Yes
Calyptranthes
zuzygium
Yes
Cattleyopsis lindenii II
Cephalocereus
bahamensis
II
Encyclia boothiana
II
Yes
Yes
This shrub is known from the Bahamas only on the
northern islands. It also occurs in Florida, the Greater
Antilles, and Central America. At BBC is grows in
coppices.
This small shrub is known from the Bahamas only from
Grand Bahama and the Abacos. It occurs in sunny to
partially shaded habitats with periodically flooded
brackish or saline soils.
This small tree is known from the Bahamas only on the
northern Islands. It occurs in coppices.
This is an epiphytic orchid that is listed by CITES. The
species is widespread in the Bahamas and also occurs in
Cuba. It grows on a variety of trees in shade and partial
shade.
This large cactus listed by CITES. It is known in the
Bahamas only from Cat Island, Andros Island, and
northwards. It grows in coppices on sand or rock. At
BBC it is found in the coastal coppice just east of Jones’
Bay. This species may be transplanted
This is an epiphytic orchid that is listed by CITES and is
known from the Bahamas only in the northern islands.
2
CITES (Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species) is an international treaty which
prohibits the trade of rare/endangered species.
21
Encyclia rufa
II
Yes
Eragrostis excelsa
Yes
Eupatorium
havanense
Yes
Eupatorium
lucayanum
Yes
Euphorbia cayensis
Yes
Euphorbia
trichotoma
Guapira discolor
Yes
Iresine canescens
Yes
Malvaviscus
arboreus var.
cubensis
Yes
Maytenus
phyllanthoides
Yes
Morinda royoc
Yes
Oncidium sasseri
II
Opuntia stricta
II
Panicum amarulum
Yes
Yes
This is an epiphytic or terrestrial orchid that is listed by
CITES. The species is widespread in the Bahamas and
may also occur in Cuba. It grows on a variety of trees in
shade and partial shade.
This grass is known in the Bahamas only from the
northern islands. It is also found in Cuba. At BBC it is
found in a variety of open sunny habitats including
dunes and disturbed areas.
This small shrub is known from the Bahamas only on
the northern islands. It also occurs in Cuba, Texas and
Mexico. At BBC it is found in coppices and slightly
disturbed uplands.
This small shrub is endemic to the Bahamas and occurs
throughout the archipelago. At BBC it is found in
coppices and slightly disturbed uplands.
This herb is endemic to the Bahamas where it occurs
from San Salvador, the northern islands, and Cay Sal or
the Angular Cays. At BBC it is found in open sand in
full sun on dunes or slightly disturbed areas.
This herb is known from the Bahamas only on the
northern islands. At BBC it grows on dunes.
This tree is listed by the Bahamas. It occurs throughout
the Bahamas, Florida, the Greater Antilles, and Grand
Cayman. At BBC it is a common to abundant tree.
This herb is known from the Bahamas only from the
Abacos and Grand Bahama Island. It also occurs in the
southeastern United States, the Caribbean, and
continental tropical America. At BBC it occurs on the
windward side of the island in coppices.
This shrub is known from the Bahamas only from the
Abacos and Grand Bahama Island. It also occurs in
Cuba. At BBC it is frequent in coppices and in the
abandoned Disney area.
This shrub is known from the Bahamas only from the
Abacos and Grand Bahama Island. It is also known
from Florida, Cuba, Texas, and Mexico. At BBC it
occurs at the ecotone between mangrove wetlands and
coppice in the northern part of the island.
This scandent shrub is known from the Bahamas only
from the northern islands. It is also known from Florida,
the Caribbean, Central and northern South America. At
BBC it grows in coppices.
This epiphytic orchid is endemic to the northern
Bahamas and is listed by CITES. This is the most
endangered plant species at BBC. Only a few
collections of this species have been made in the
Bahamas, including two from Andros, five from Great
Abaco.
This cactus is listed by CITES. It occurs throughout the
Bahamas, and also occurs in Florida, Mexico, and the
Caribbean. At BBC it grows on dunes in cells I8 and I9,
and at the edge of coppice in cell 12 in slightly disturbed
soil.
This grass is known from the Bahamas only from the
northern islands. It also occurs in the southeastern
United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. At BBC it is
frequent on beach dunes.
22
Swietenia mahagoni II
Ziziphus taylori
Yes
This tree is listed as protected in the Bahamas and is
listed by CITES. It occurs throughout the Bahamas and
also in Florida, Central and South America, and the
Caribbean. It is protected because of extensive logging
for the valuable wood. At BBC.
This small tree is endemic to the Bahamas. It occurs
throughout the archipelago. At BBC it is frequent in
coppices.
b. Impact Mapping and coastal characterization
Percent change and impact mapping will be used to monitor land conversion. During the
mitigation and construction processes land vegetation will be altered either by restoration or
clearing. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) the grids will be analyzed monthly to
track these alterations and determine % changes. The ‘quality’ of land cover will be
considered during this analysis. For example an area may go from heavily vegetated with
Australian pine (poor quality) to more sparsely covered with native coastal species (good
quality), which are stabilizing a beach. Section 2C expands upon the Impact Mapping System
which will be used to illustrate the Ecological and Environmental status of the property.
For four years, the Earthwatch coastal ecology expedition has been tracking coastal changes
in the Bahamas, developing coastal characterizations for sites within the country
(http://henge.bio.miami.edu/coastalecology/GECoastalMapping.htm). Coastal maps and
analysis are done by integrating shore profiles, shore plant communities, shore type, satellite
images and score cards which rank coasts in terms of potential sources for coastal water
quality degradation. The coasts of the property will be characterized, tracked throughout
developed and evaluated regionally and nationally.
Figure 8. An example of shoreline data collected for characterization. It shows the basic
topography of Fowl Cay, which is an example of a non-altered cay. The line graph in
this figure shows the varying heights of the terrain including the different zones. From
the zero to the 15 meter mark is the pioneer zone, 15 to the 40 meter mark is the bluff,
40 meter to 45 meters is the ridge, 45 to 80 meters is the windward rocky bluff, and to
the 90 meter mark is the rocky shore. The table is a record of the height of the points
taken by the Zip level at each interval according to the height that was taken at the first
point (in the figure, this is marked as 0.000; each meter mark coincides with the
elevation of each point).
23
The maintenance of the health of the adjacent waters and biota is critical to the success of
BBC. Baseline data has been gathered on the water quality, benthic and fish communities
around the property. Understanding these baseline conditions and standards pertaining to
them will be the focus of the monitoring program. Looking for changes in communities,
degradation in water quality or the proliferation of ‘weedy’ organisms (those which thrive in
pollutant tolerant systems) and scoring them will guide the EMT in delegating mitigation
priorities if necessary. Results will be compared and related to baseline conditions and other
areas within the Bahamas. The aggressive monitoring program and timely data analysis will
aid to ensure protocols are being followed, sources of degradation are minimized and feasible
mitigation options can be implemented when necessary (e.g. pausing construction, placing
sediment curtains, applying mulch in dry areas, etc).
Figure 9. A stressed and polluted seagrass bed.
This picture shows a polluted and
stressed seagrass communitytypified by heavy epiphytic growth
and murky water (due to
sedimentation and run-off).
Monitoring based on baseline
conditions and tracking stressors
such as sedimentation will help
detect and correct run-off events.
As listed in Table 1 many factors will be investigated to assess impacts to the near shore
communities and nearby reefs. Stressors affect fish, benthic and algal populations and many
studies have been done investigating these effects (Figure 8, Appendix 5). Additionally,
research by Earthwatch (http://henge.bio.miami.edu/coastalecology/) has been tracking the
influences of coastal development throughout the Bahamas for four years. This information
will guide data analysis and interpretation.
Data analysis
a. Univariate indices
Univariate indices such as species diversity, abundance, area coverage and hard coral
growth will be evaluated and compared to the baseline conditions of the sites. The near shore
flora and fauna have been evaluated (Appendices 8-10) and threshold levels (desired
ecological status) have been determined for these areas. Similar to terrestrial communities,
loss of certain species abundance, diversity and coverage can be indicative of anthropogenic
stressors. Tropical islands are particularly sensitive to changes in nutrient input. Degradation
of near shore marine habitats is manifested in a loss of macroalgae diversity and production
24
that are particularly important to fishes and marine life dependent on near shore marine
habitats as part of their life cycle.
b. Habitat complexity
The near shore ecological community can be evaluated in terms of its Habitat Complexity.
The flora and fish species of these near shore communities are intrinsically connected and
can be analyzed in terms of the diversity of benthic species, the physical complexity of the
bottom and fish diversity (Gratwicke and Spreight, 2005). This information for BBC’s near
shore environments will be analyzed in a status report format (section 2C).
c. Stressors
The fauna in the marine ecosystems react to stressors (pollution and sedimentation) similar to
humans by producing visible signs of ‘sickness’. In unhealthy or unstable systems, signs of
stress include:
- excess mucus production in corals and sponges;
- disease outbreaks in sponges, hard and soft corals;
- epiphytic growth on seagrass; and
- the proliferation of certain ‘weedy’ species and alga
In situ monitoring will be performed to detect stressors. Also, under water photo
documentation and photo analysis will be used.
I
Figure 10. Benthic flora and fauna community classification. Changes in the
distribution and abundance of certain alga or bottom species can be indicative of
pollutants or stressors on the near shore community. Baseline conditions, such as %
coverage will be compared to future samples to assess any changes and look for
stressors. In stressed marine systems ‘weedy’ species will begin to dominate,
changing the community characteristics, decreasing community integrity.
25
4 & 5. Socio-economic influences and Education and outreach analysis
An assessment will be done to examine the affects of the BBC development on the
human environment. A socio-economic analysis and education and outreach success
analysis will evaluate the effects of the BBC development on the local communities and
economics of the Abacos. The objectives of the socio-economic analysis and education
and outreach success analysis are to:
1. Estimate and track changes in the housing densities and infrastructure in the
Abacos.
2. Estimate the market and non-market economic values derived from BBC.
3. Demonstrate how sustainable development practices can benefit the region
economically and socially (e.g. jobs generated, scientific information acquired,
partnerships fostered, etc.).
4. Consensus build and foster a cooperative management and stewardship process.
5. Disseminate educational materials and facilitate education seminars, programs, etc.
and document community perceptions.
Data Analysis
Socio-economic analysis will build upon existing data from the Earthwatch Coastal
Ecology of the Bahamas project and incorporate government available data (e.g. housing
density in Abacos, tourism revenues in Abacos, boating/yachting density, etc.) to track
changes from the development of BBC. These studies will follow those done by
Leeworthy and Wiley (Appendix 4) in the Florida Keys. To foster environmental
stewardship with local community members and future residents, the Developers have
also established an independent Great Guana Cay foundation. This foundation will
disseminate project ecological and environmental information via a website, brochures,
meetings, and nature tours.
Figure 11. Example resource value assessment pie chart. BBC will expectedly
impact the Abacos economically and socially. Tracking changes BBC has on the
local economy in terms of revenue generated, jobs gained, partnerships fostered will
be a critical component of the monitoring program.
26
Figure 12. A socio-economic survey distributed by Earthwatch.
Coastal Community Surveys and Impact
Surveyors:
Island:
Date/Time:
Settlement
GPS LOCATION
X:
PHOTO Number
Interveiwee
Resident
Tourist
year of birth
years on island
Y:
Attitudes towards QUALITY OF LIFE
Better
Worse
No diff.
Not Sure
How would compare now to 5 years ago?
quality of life in general on out island
opportunities for work
quality of the environment
quality of fishing
quality and availability of housing
male
female
employed
unemployed
Attitudes towards GROWTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
VS = very serious; S = Serious, NP = Not a problem, Not Sure
VS
S
NP
Not sure
HOW DO YOU RATE THE FOLLOWING ISSUES
1 limitations or availability of fresh water?
2 contamination of ground water (with sewage)
3 salt water intrusion to ground water sources
4 limitation on land for settlements - housing , schools
5 sprawl and unplanned development on island
6 loss of agriculture and agricultural areas
7 cost of housing
8 hurricane and flood insurance
9 transportation services - airport and mailboat
10 roads and transportation infrastructure on island
11 enforcement of environmental regulations
12 solid waste management, dumping and trash
13 old and abandoned vehicles
14 protection of wildlife, particularly birds, land crabs
15 invasion of exotic plants like Australian pine
16 sand mining and rock excavation
17 coastal erosion and loss of beach areas
18 pollution and dumping in blue holes and caves
19 pollution of marine environment, coastal waters
BEST SOURCES FOR INFORMATION
Radio Station
ZNS - TV
Newspaper
Church
Community Meetings
Local Government
Other
Name and address if wants summary report
Add to mailing list
Yes
No
Attitudes on COST AND RESPONSIBILITY for ENVIRONMENT
RANK
1st
2nd
3rd
not sure
WHO IS MOST RESPONSIBLE FOR ENVIRN. MANAGEMENT?
local government
island-wide planning council
central government
individual citizens
WHO SHOULD BEAR COSTS OF ENFORCEMENT
local government
central government
individual citizens
WHO SHOULD BEAR COSTS OF CLEAN UPS?
local government
central government
individual citizens
OPINIONS ON ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATORY MECHANISMS
S = Strengthed or Need this, R = Relax or don't need, NC = no change needed
elax or don't need, NC = no change needed
HOW WOULD YOU CHANGE THE FOLLOWING
S
R
NC Not sure
1 Environmental Impact accessments of new projects
2 enforcement of current regulations
3 regulatory legislation in environmental protection
4 local government involvement
5 central government involvement
6 citizen involvement and education
7 non-government organization involvement
27
2C: Status report approach to monitoring and Impact mapping
Status reports will be evaluated for the factors and indicators measured in the ecological
and environmental monitoring program. Scores and rankings will be based upon the
percent or level of change from the baseline conditions within the island grid system. A
cumulative score for the factors and indicators will be determined. Suggestions by the
EMT will be made based upon these scores. Figure 13 is an example status report.
Figure 13. Example status report for factors and indicators measured in the
environmental monitoring program.
Grid: D6 Factor: Plant diversity
Indicators: species abundance, rare species, invasive species
Parameters
Baseline
level
Current
level
% or
level of
change
Score
(1-5)
Species abundance
Relative abundance of
rare species
Relative abundance of
invasives
Cumulative Quadrat Score (1-5) ______
Cumulative Score Criteria for Plant Diversity:
1. Data suggests that the complexity and distribution of the plant communities is in notable
decline (substantial negative alterations from baseline condition).
2. Data suggests that the complexity and distribution of the plant communities is in decline
(noticeable alterations from baseline condition).
3. Data suggests that the complexity and distribution of the plant communities is unchanged
(negligible alterations for majority of parameters, similar to baseline conditions).
4. Data suggests that the complexity and distribution of the plant communities is improving
(favorable or recovering for majority of parameters).
5. Data suggests that the complexity and distribution of the plant communities is notably
improving (community is much improved from baseline conditions).
The EMT will make mitigation recommendations for those grids scoring a 1 or 2.
Follow-up procedures will proceed to gauge recovery.
A monthly development impact status report will be used to track development impacts
and for the EMT to promptly offer advice and mitigation options if necessary. It is
noteworthy to stress that ‘impacts’ should not always be viewed with a negative
connotation. For example mitigations and dune and beach restoration are positive
impacts. The status report will track ecological and environmental impacts in addition to
a GIS impact map. The status reports and maps seek to track Best Management Practices
(BMP’s), Buffer Zone maintenance, land changes, mitigations, air burner emissions,
nursery operations, and EIA compliance. The maps will offer visual progressions of the
project, highlight BMP’s and indicate areas where corrective/mitigation actions may need
to be advised (Figure 15).
28
A. Marine Status Reports
Quarterly, marine status reports (Figure 14) will be completed. The status reports will
seek to elucidate the status or changes in benthic and fish communities, water quality and
hard coral growth. The reports will be specifically related to development practices to
infer if there are any related environmental effects.
B. Construction and Development Status Reports
To gauge and measure the construction and development of Baker's Bay Club (BBC),
environmental managers will use the Development Status Report for Environmental
Management (Figure 15). The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the
Environmental Management Plan (EMP) outline Best Management Practices (BMP's)
for construction and development procedures, mitigations, and documentation advocated
and recommended by the Environmental Management Team (EMT). The Status
Reports will rate site construction, mitigations, nursery, and pest control procedures in
terms of their adherence to BMP's, protocols, procedures and recommendations as
advised in the EIA, EMP and personal communications with the EMT. Status
Reports will be completed monthly and will be submitted to BBC staff and the B.E.S.T.
Commission.
29
Figure 14. Marine Status Report
Hard Coral GrowthPopulation and
Individual
Hard Coral Health
5: no deviations from
5: presence of mucus,
original size-frequency
distributions / positive
growth of 75% transplants
size-frequency distributions
of at least one population,
arrested growth of 50%
transplants
polyp swelling,
discoloration, and/or
partial colony mortality
evident in <25%
transplants and
residents
polyp swelling,
in <50% transplants
and residents
polyp swelling,
in <75% transplants
and residents
2: evident stress
responses as listed
previously, and/or
presence of new
disease lesions
1: deviations from original
size-frequency distributions
of two or more populations /
arrested growth of >50% and
mortality of transplants
Status:
distributions / arrested
distributions / arrested
2: deviations from original
Marine Plant
Diversity
Epifauna Diversity
Fish Diversity
Water Quality
Index
Sedimentation
Index
5: no significant
difference in species
presence or abundance
in any survey areas,
presence of healthy
indicator species
5: no significant
difference in species
presence or abundance
in any survey areas,
healthy indicator
organisms present
5: no significant
difference in
species presence
or abundance in
any survey areas
5: no parameters
5: all baseline
significantly deviate
from mean baseline
data
sedimentation rates
maintained
4: <25% communities
4: significant
differences in presence
or abundance in <25%
of sites
4: significant
4: 1/4 parameters fall
differences in
presence or
abundance in
<25% of sites
out of mean baseline
range
4: 75% baseline
sedimentation rates
maintained
3: significant
of sites, disturbance
indicators present
3: significant
differences in
presence or
abundance in
<50% of sites
2: <75% communities
contain disturbance
indicator species, or
proliferation of one
species in any
community
2: significant
of sites, disturbance
indicators dominate
2: significant
differences in
PRESENCE or
abundance in
<75% of sites
range
1: significant mortality
1: proliferation of one
1: drastic phase shift of
1: drastic loss of
species in >1
community, or drastic
loss of algae or seagrass
communities
any macro-invertebrate
community
fish communities
1: all parameters
drastically altered
1: significant
of transplants and/or
residents
Status:
Status:
Status:
Status:
Status:
Status:
contain disturbance
indicator species
3: <50% communities
contain disturbance
indicator species
range
3: 50% baseline
sedimentation rates
maintained
2: 25% baseline
sedimentation rates
maintained
sedimentation event
inflicting severe
community damage
30
Figure 15. Construction and Development Status Report
BAKER’S BAY CLUB CONSTRUCTION STATUS REPORT
DATE:
STAFF:
Questions: The following check list provides an outline to aid on-site environmental managers surveying BBC construction and developm
for the purposes of weekly status report completion
CONSTRUCTION
Y
N
Cell(s)
GPS
Photo (P) /
Figure (F)#
Inland
1. Buffer zones observed and clearly marked?
2. Road widths proper?
3. Sediment curtains in place and secure?
4. Avoidance/transplantation of flagged vegetation?
5. Cleared roads are covered in mulch/watered?
6. Vegetation along roads in healthy status?
7. Construction following outlined plan?
8. Hazards clearly marked?
9. Encroachment into the preserve?
10. Are dredge materials being properly handled (e.g. high organic soils
not drying out, materials stored in proper location)
Coastal/Buffer zone/Near shore
1. Machinery/construction on beaches during sea turtle nesting season?
2. Dredging operations are being properly managed?
3. Noticeable sedimentation around dredging operations?
4. Barges stirring up sediment or grounding?
5. Improper activities in the coastal buffer zone?
6. Chemical usage?
EXOTIC REMOVAL AND WASTE CLEAN UP
Y
N
Cell(s)
GPS
Photo (P)
/Figure (F)#
1. Recommended protocols/procedures being followed?
2. Proper equipment/techniques being used?
3. Regrowth of exotics? Species?
4. Healthy conditions observed in restored areas?
5. Proper waste disposal procedures being followed (e.g. composting,
recycling, toxin removal, proper location)?
6. Artificial wetland functioning properly?
7. Air burner procedures being followed? Log being kept?
8. Proper disposal/action with landscaping waste
(composting/recycling)?
9. Only required materials being burned (e.g. no compostable or
recyclable materials)?
NURSERY
Y
N
Cell(s)
GPS
Photo (P)
/Figure (F)#
1. Rare, conservation and landscaping vegetation properly flagged?
2. Proper vegetation removal procedures being followed (e.g. large trees
transplanted, rare species transplanted, Casuarina removal following
outlined procedures)?
3. Log book being kept (species transplanted, transplantation/
propagation specs, watering regime, chemical usage)? Collect weekly.
4. Proper chemical usage and storage?
5. Sediment controls where necessary?
31
PEST CONTROL
1. Adherence to the Integrated Pest Management plan?
2. Application schedule and quantities being followed?
3. Proper chemical usage?
4. Proper waste disposal- not exacerbating pests/rodents?
5. Imported materials/vegetation checked for exotics?
6. Lob lac scale found?
Status Report
A. CONSTRUCTION
4. Complete adherence to EIA, EMP or EMT recommendations and specifications
3. Slight discrepancies in adherence to EIA, EMP or EMT recommendations, no mitigations required. No environmental
impacts, proper communication with EMT. (E.g. sediment curtains needed maintenance, minor sedimentation problems
while dredging- but operations curtailed or halted, slight deviation from construction plan, unauthorized machinery on
beach)
2. Minor impacts and mitigations required. Incomplete adherence to EIA, EMP or EMT recommendations. Proper
communications with EMT. (E.g. roadside vegetation damage, sediment curtains remaining un-tucked, minor buffer zone
encroachment, sea turtle endangerment)
1. Major impacts to construction grids, no adherence to EIA, EMP or EMT recommendations. No communications with
EMT or on-site environmental manager. Major mitigations required. (E.g. Rare/conservation plants, large trees not
salvaged, improper road clearing, no mulch, encroachment into preserve or buffer zone, heavy sedimentation, ship/barge
grounding, major sedimentation problems while dredging, weekly construction plan not followed.
CURRENT STATUS:
PREVIOUS STATUS:
Comments:
B. EXOTIC REMOVAL
4. Complete adherence to outlined restoration procedures. Proper communications with the EMT and on-site environmental
manager. Proper chemical usage.
3. Exotic seedlings colonizing restored areas. Minor deviations from outlined restoration procedures. Proper communications
with the EMT and on-site environmental manager.. No mitigations required.
2. Many juvenile exotics observed in restored areas. Proper communications with the EMT and on-site environmental
manager. Minor improper chemical and/or equipment usage (no environmental damage).
1. Many adult exotics colonizing restored areas. Improper chemical usage, outlined restoration procedures not followed.
Improper
equipment usage. No communications with EMT or on-site environmental manager. Mitigations required.
CURRENT STATUS:
PREVIOUS STATUS:
Comments:
C. CLEAN UP AND WASTE DISPOSAL
4. All materials disposed of and/or stored properly. Proper communication with the EMT and on-site environmental manager.
3. Minor improper disposal/location of waste and chemicals. No environmental degradation or mitigations required. Proper
communication with the EMT and on-site environmental manager.
2. Improper disposal/location, minor mitigations required, but remedied in a timely manner. (E.g. excess air burning of
compostable/recyclable materials, major lay-down area infractions) Proper communication with the EMT and on-site
environmental manager.
1. Improper disposal/location of waste and chemicals (e.g. dredge materials in unauthorized location, dumping of oil/fuel
and/or chemicals.). Environmental degradation, mitigations required. Hazardous materials improperly handled. No
communications with EMT or on-site environmental manager.
CURRENT STATUS:
PREVIOUS STATUS:
Comments:
32
D. PRESERVE AREAS
4. No construction encroachments. No mitigations required. Ecological status preserved. Preserve area adequately delineated.
Proper communication with the EMT and on-site environmental manager.
3. Minor construction encroachments. No mitigations required. Ecological status not compromised. Preserve area adequately
delineated. Proper communication with the EMT and on-site environmental manager.
2. Minor construction encroachments. Minor mitigations required. Ecological status compromised. Preserve area not
adequately delineated. Proper communication with the EMT and on-site environmental manager.
1. Major construction encroachments. Mitigations required. Ecological status compromised. Preserve area not adequately
delineated. No communications with EMT or on-site environmental manager.
CURRENT STATUS:
PREVIOUS STATUS:
Comments:
E. NURSERY
4. Between 75-100% of rare/conservation or large trees flagged or transplanted within construction grid/s. (< 25% of
rare/conservation vegetation or large trees lost during construction.). Proper communication with the EMT and on-site
environmental manager. Log submitted.
3. Between 50-75% of rare/conservation or large trees flagged or transplanted within construction grid/s. (50-25% of
rare/conservation vegetation or large trees lost during construction.). Proper communication with the EMT and on-site
environmental manager. Log submitted
2. Between 25-50% of rare/conservation or large trees flagged or transplanted within construction grid/s. (75%-50% of
rare/conservation vegetation or large trees lost during construction.). Proper chemical usage/storage. Proper
communication with the EMT and on-site environmental manager. Log submitted.
1. Less than 25% of rare/conservation vegetation or large trees flagged or transplanted within construction grid/s. (100-75%
of rare/conservation vegetation or large trees lost during construction.) No communications with EMT or on-site
environmental manager. Improper chemical usage/storage. Log not submitted.
CURRENT STATUS:
PREVIOUS STATUS:
Comments:
F. PEST CONTROL
4. Full adherence to IPMP and monthly application schedule with localities. Proper communication with the EMT and on-site
3. Minor deviations from IPMP and/or and monthly application schedule. Proper communication with the EMT and on-site
2. Unauthorized deviations from the Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPMP) and/or the monthly application schedule with
localities. No adverse environmental impacts. Monthly application schedule and localities submitted to on-site manager
or EMT. Proper communication with the EMT and on-site environmental manager.
1. Insufficient adherence to Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPMP). (E.g. unauthorized chemical applications, applications
within the buffer zone, deviating from application schedule.) Adverse environmental impacts. Improper waste
disposal/construction practices exacerbating rodents and pests. Monthly application schedule with localities not submitted
to on-site manager or EMT. No communications with EMT or on-site environmental manager. Chemical log not
submitted.
CURRENT STATUS:
PREVIOUS STATUS:
STATUS TOTAL:
PREVIOUS STATUS:
ISUES TO FOLLOW UP ON:
ISSUES RESOLVED:
33
2D: Environmental Management
The BBC project seeks to promote Best Management Practices in environmental
management by being innovative and environmentally sensitive concerning waste
management, nursery operations and pest management. The project will be utilizing a
variety of resources and technologies and environmental management will be evaluated and
documented. The implementation of Environmental Management plans will be the
responsibility of the on-site project manager. The EMT has set up the procedures,
regulations, policies and will monitor to confirm adherence, offer insights and corrective
actions if required.
1. Solid, hazardous and sewage waste management
a. Solid Waste
Table 3 lists the manner in which each type or waste will be managed.
Table 3. Waste and hazardous material management during construction.
DESCRIPTION
TYPE OF WASTE
Plant material, garden All plant material, including
exotic plant removal from coastal
waste and cuttings
areas, shrubs and trees trimmed
from homes and the resort, as
well as golf course clippings
FATE OR DEPOSITION
Chip and compost small material.
Casuarina trees logs recycled for fencing
of coastal buffer zone, as needed. Air
curtain destructors (e.g. airburners.com)
will be used for leftover materials.
Household/ Food
Organic Material
High nitrogen organic wastes
generated from food preparation
Compost at communal composting or
permiculture in employee settlement
Construction Debris
and Wastes
Large pieces of waste from
Removal of Disney Treasure
Island complex, concrete, wire
and lumber, not toxic
Glass, tin, paper, plastic and glass
Lumber recycled in landscaping,
Unusable material compacted for removal
from island
Re-cycled Material
Last discardappliances, cars, etc.
House-hold wastes
Toxic and hazardous
wastes
Large, disposable items
Compactable household and
resort waste that can not be
recycled
Contaminated soil removed from
the Disney Treasure Island
complex, paints, used oil, and
other materials requiring special
consideration in disposal
High organic content, potential
public health hazards
Any material, particularly from packaging
that can be recycled will be separated and
stored. PPS will work with local
environmental groups on recycling
processing for the region
Compaction and store for removal from
island
Compaction and store for removal from
island
Special storage facilities and processing
for removal from island
Composting toilets, artificial wetland
Sewage and Waste
processing
water treatment
An on-site composting facility will be constructed to compost green landscaping waste and
house hold waste.
34
b. Air curtain burner
Air curtain burners (ACB’s) (Figure 16) have been used by the US Department of
Agriculture, the UK Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Canadian
Forest Service, and in the Bahamas for purposes expediently burning trees infested with
disease, disposing of infected animal carcasses, and disposing of hurricane debris. ACB’s are
specialized in design to reduce particulate matter and emissions when burning, producing
little to no visible smoke when optimally operating. ACB’s are steel container with an
internal refractory lining with a pipe running along the top of one long edge that produces a
high velocity air stream over the top of the open container. The top is open for loading fuel
and to create a swirling action within the container to assist efficient combustion. Optimally,
temperatures within the ACB range from 600º to 1000º Celsius in order to lessen emission of
CO2 and CO and oxides of nitrogen (report for UK Department of Environment, Food and
Rural Affairs, 2002).
A logbook will be kept on-site recording estimated amount of materials going into the ACB,
estimates of the types of materials (green vegetation, wood, etc), hours of burning and
temperatures. The on-site environmental manager will be responsible for submitting this
monthly to the EMT in order to estimate emissions and to enter into it the monthly
environmental BEST report and status report.
Figure 16. Air curtain burner.
35
2. Waste Water Treatment and Management
The following activities are KNOWN to increase coastal eutrophication will be AVOIDED
in the BBC development:
•
On-Site Disposal Systems or Soak-Aways - Most island houses have a "soakaway" or septic system. The system is designed to include a series of underground
filters to digest the organic material in sewage and wastewater. In tropical
environments, often soils are very thin, therefore effluents from septic systems and
soak-aways migrate rapidly through to ground water. Poorly constructed "soakaways" are essentially cesspits that afford very little wastewater treatment, and
pollutants move rapidly through groundwater to coastal waters. Cesspits can result in
the degradation of water quality in adjacent canals and lagoons, not to mention
contamination of ground water.
•
Package Plants and Injection Wells - Injection wells are used in more densely
populated hotels and resorts. Most package plants are not designed to remove
nutrients. Injection wells make use of cavities and caves in the carbonate platform,
and inject both raw sewage and secondary treatment effluent into wells of varying
depths. This is the "out of site-out of mind" philosophy, and over time contaminated
groundwater can migrate to surface waters.
•
Live-aboard boats and yachts - The Bahamas has long been a Mecca for sailors
and yachtsman with its beautiful waters and many islands. Yachting traffic dumps
sewage directly into coastal waters in the Bahamas where holding tanks are not
required. Raw sewage or disinfected sewage can be pumped overboard and rapidly
diluted by tidal currents when holding tanks and pump-out stations are not used. The
"solution to pollution is dilution" concept has applied to many anchorages of the
Bahamas with low population densities and strong tidal flushing on harbours and
bays. However, the increasing popularity of boating in the Bahamas and increased
yachting tourism now presents a problem for some areas. Holding tanks will be
required for resident boat owners
•
Stormwater runoff - Stormwater runoff is totally untreated, and heavy rains can
carry nutrients and hydrocarbons (petroleum and oils) from roads, bridges, rooftops
and yards into coastal waters. Most rainwater soaks into the porous carbonate rock,
but heavy rains can carry significant amounts of pollution into coastal waters from
densely populated and urban areas. Storm water management can be accomplished
through planned drainage systems away from the sea and by maintaining a healthy
coastal vegetation buffer zone
36
There are two options for SEWAGE AND WASTE WATER TREATMENT for the Bakers
Bay Club:
•
Composting toilets and /or
•
Constructed wastewater processing wetlands
These sewage and gray water treatments can be used throughout the full operations of the
Bakers Bay Club by relocating the composting toilets to the marina and the Discovery
Environmental Outreach Centre after the construction.
a. Composting Toilets
The CLIVUS MULTRUM Company has demonstrated to the world that sewage treatment
can both conserve water and prevent eutrophication of sensitive wetlands and coastal areas.
Now there are a variety of companies that can provide basic composting systems for the
construction-site. Composting toilets are a healthier alternative than the flush waste
treatment system.
Alternatively, the composting toilet allows the nutrients in human excreta to be captured and
readied for use again as fertilizers—instead of mixing them with water or toxic industrial
chemicals. The composting toilet makes it unnecessary to pollute water and soil, or to use
clean water to flush toilets.
The breakdown of waste in the composting toilet is carried out by mesophilic organisms, i.e.,
organisms that thrive within a temperature range of 20-45 °C. These temperatures are perfect
for fast decomposition in The Bahamas. Chief among these are a wide range of bacteria and
fungi. Also highly active within the compost system are many invertebrates, such as red
worms, which transport oxygen and moisture throughout the compost mass while they assist
the physical and chemical breakdown. Red worms would NOT be used in island systems to
avoid unintentional introduction of species.
Bulk material (typically, shredded bark mulch or Australian pines) is added to help maintain
a porous texture that promotes aeration and good moisture content. Human pathogens are
killed not by the heat within the composter but by predatory organisms and the long retention
time in the system. Especially important in the compost process are the nitrifying bacteria
(e.g., nitrobacter and nitrosomonas), which turn the nitrogen in human waste into nitrites and
nitrates, i.e., forms of nitrogen plants need for growth.
Since greywater, i.e., water from sinks, showers, and washing machines contains only about
10% as much nitrogen as does human waste; it’s far less of a pollution problem. When
greywater is put into the aerobic environment of topsoil soon after it has been collected,
plants and soil organisms use the nutrients it contains. However, low nutrient soils found on
tropical islands are very intolerant to excess nutrients. The grey water needs to be processed
through a constructed wetland.
37
b. Constructed wetlands
In the past couple of decades, there has been growing interest among governments and
industries in utilizing the abilities of constructed wetlands for processing and eliminating
wastewater and sewage. The use of natural systems for treating waste is called
bioremediation, or phytoremedation when plants are involved. Wetland biological
communities are comprised of diverse communities of bacteria and hardy, fast-growing
plants that are adapted to taking advantage of high nutrient loads. They have proved to be
especially capable of biodegrading nutrient-laden domestic sewage and even some toxic
industrial effluents, and rendering them less harmful to neighboring ecosystems and human
communities (Figure 17).
Constructed wetlands can provide a highly effective, partial solution towards sustainable
water use on tropical islands. There are already constructed wetlands for wastewater
processing on Eleuthera and Exuma islands. Wastewater travels through a constructed
wetland and emerges both filtered and lower in nutrients. The wastewater can be used for
watering the native landscape or golf courses. As tropical islands’ soils tend towards low
nutrient concentrations, many native plants are not adapted to dealing with rich soils, and
have adverse reactions to over-fertilization.
It is relatively cheap and easy to build a constructed wetland. Even while becoming
established, a properly designed greywater wetland will produce absolutely no bad odors or
increase mosquito populations. The only difference between constructing a pond is that a
natural wetland is mostly or completely filled in with some sort of growing medium for the
plants (e.g gravel). The diagram below shows a basic rectangular design, with some optional
"features”. There is flexibility with regard to design, as wetlands themselves are generally
very robust and forgiving. Wastewater wetlands can be added in a series of linked modules.
Figure 17. Schematic diagram of a phytoremediation wetland.
Copyright Lawrence Fields. Photograph by Lawrence Fields.
38
It's possible (especially in warm climates) to build a wetland large enough that it has no
output or overflow, where all the greywater that went in would be lost to evapotranspiration.
Generous water consumption rates have been estimated at would be about 150 litres of waste
per day per person for toilets, showers, kitchen and laundry. The waste water should take 4 to
5 days to travel from one end of the wetland to the other, taking into account the gravel fill in
the wetland construction, the typical capacity for constructed wetlands is about 3 cubic
meters per person.
Modules for 10 people would be 1 meter deep, three meters wide by 10 meters long (300
cubic meters of wetland). Modules can be added for increased capacity, and “stored” by
drying down to decrease capacity.
Factors influencing the purification process of constructed wetland treatment systems:
The main factors that typify the treatment characteristics are:
a) hydraulic loading (m³/[ha x d]) and hydraulic detention time (d)
b) temperature
c) influent pollutant concentration
d) oxygen supply
e) development stage of the plant ecosystem (this sequence is in random order, not
according to quantitative importance) High volume systems like aerated lagoons
or planted soil filters offer comparatively large growth surfaces and detention
times, which can be controlled by height variable outlet weirs.
The wastewater gardens will be visually evaluated monthly in terms of functioning, presence
of algal/bacteria mats and odour. This will be included in the monthly status report.
3. Nursery operations
The on-site nursery and management of it is a critical component of the BBC project. A goal
of the EIA is to use only local vegetation, mainly from the property, for dune restoration and
landscaping. Also, salvaging and replanting of conservation/rare species is vital for meeting
project goals and complying with local and international regulations. Thorough
documentation of species transplanted, horticulture specifics, species success rates and
transplantations is important regionally and environmentally. In light of the ‘experimental
nature’ of this development, the resources, efforts, and horticultural specifics used will be
valuable information for understanding the specific local propagation needs for native
species. This information will be documented and disseminated to local operations and
homeowners to encourage native plant propagation and utilization within the Abacos.
Environmentally, it is important to track water and fertilizer/herbicide/chemical use and
regularly test the surrounding soils and waters to monitor for pollutants. The nursery
manager and staff are responsible for the tagging of pertinent vegetation, salvaging
operations, horticulture specifics (fertilizer, watering, size, growth, etc) and transplantation.
The nursery manager will keep a logbook specifying the aforementioned and submit to
the EMT monthly. Additionally, the EMT will do periodic soil testing around the nursery.
39
Figure 18. Nursery site. The on site nursery will be established to transplant and
salvage conservation and landscaping species. The developers have salvaged and
restored structures left by a previous development for the nursery.
4. Integrated Pest Management
The minimization of insects and pests in heavily populated areas is important for disease
control and personal well-being. However, it is vital to minimize personal toxic exposure
and soil, groundwater and near shore pollution that can arise from chemical use. The EIA
specifies judicious use of chemicals on the property, especially concerning golf course
maintenance. The porosity of the property will not allow for filtering of the chemicals,
making vegetation, animals (e.g. land crabs) and near shore flora and fauna susceptible to
these chemicals. The BBC staff and the EMT will implement an Integrated Pest Management
Plan (IPM) (in draft). IPM means regular monitoring to determine if and when treatments are
needed, and employing biological, cultural, mechanical, physical, and educational tactics
to prevent pests or keep their numbers down. The BBC IPM will emphasize non-chemical
control methods, focusing on screening in areas, natural insecticides/larvicides, raking of the
beaches and avoidance of standing water sources/ drainage. The on-site environmental
manager will oversee the IPM and any chemical use will be documented. Appendix 12
outlines the BBC IPM plan.
40
Figure 19. Examples from San Francisco’s Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPM).
The IPM for BBC will advocate a proactive approach to pest management, minimizing
chemical use by reducing breeding sources, screening in areas, natural insecticides/
larvicides and raking beaches.
The most effective way to control mosquitoes is to find and eliminate their breeding sites.
Elimination of breeding places will focus on:
1. Removing standing water caused by construction puddles, seepage pools, lawn, or
landscaping depressions by drainage or filling with earth.
2. Checking irrigation and drainage ditches for leaks or seepage and maintain free
flow of water.
3. Grading newly developed land to prevent standing water.
4. Providing drainage away from premises for excess irrigation water, or collect in
storage sump and reuse on land.
5. Managing weeds in areas where adult mosquitoes congregate (such as small manmade bodies of water, ornamental pools), water retention ponds, lagoons or water
reservoirs.
6. Regularly removing floating debris from standing water to reduce egg-laying
sites.
7. Constructing drainage holes on structures and containers that may trap water such
as barrels.
41
2E: INCIDENT REPORT AND CLEAR REPORTING
RESPONSIBILITIES
The EMP is the system of ‘checks and balances’ for determining success in meeting the goals
and objectives of the EIA. Delegating clear procedures for reporting is critical to this
process. The EMT will prepare monthly reports which will be submitted to the Bahamas
Environment Science and Technology Commission.
Incident Report
WHAT IS AN INCIDENT?
An incident is a real or perceived change in the development and operations plan. The
implication of reporting an “incident” is that there is some unplanned negative impact on the
environment of the project site, and thus, the potential for violating the protocols and
standards set in the Environmental Impact Assessment. ANY deviation from the plans
circulated and approved needs to be reported.
Although there is great concern for safety on any construction-site, this particular incident
report does not deal with work-place injuries OTHER than poison wood rashes or injurious
encounters with marine life. We want to particularly monitor the spread of poison wood
seedlings or “outbreaks” of sea lice or thimble jellies that may prove harmful to people as
well as indicate specific ecological events.
The INCIDENT REPORTING SYSTEM can
- be used to address real problems in the construction phase like lack of protection of
the coastal buffer zone or heavy ground compaction, and thus improve management
practices,
- be used as an internal response mechanism for dealing with accidents and mishaps
that need immediate attention for clean-up or restoration,
- be a tool for positively addressing rumors and “outside” observations of the
construction process (e.g. yachtsmen reporting damage to seagrass beds or high turbidity
in the sea during dock construction).
The REPORTING SYSTEM is meant to be a transparent mechanism for tracking problems
on the ground. Anyone can complete the report. Internally generated reports will be
processed through the development team. Externally generated reports will be dealt with and
posted on the www.saveguanacay.org or related project website.
Submission Procedure:
1.) Incident submission forms should be available both on-line on the project FTP site
and hard copies on-site.
2.) Forms should be completed and sent to DOUG SHIPMAN, DLC. Doug should be
the first point of contact for all incidents
3.) D. Shipman will pass the form on to the Environmental Management Team (Nicolle
Cushion, University of Miami) within 24 hours with three questions addressed:
a) Is there a need for immediate action and follow up to mitigate, restore and
clean-up the area impacted?
42
b) Does this incident warrant a separate, formal report to the Ministry of
Financial Services and BEST Commission?
c) What are the corrective actions that need to be put into place (e.g. better
supervision, better signage, better marking of sensitive areas)?
4.) The Environmental Management Team will respond within 1-day on the protocols
for clean up or restoration. Some clean up protocols need to be in place for
immediate deployment. These include:
a) oil and gas spills on land or in the water of more than 2 liters,
b) any spill of pesticides, paints, petrol-chemicals or fertilizers on-site,
c) sedimentation events caused by groundings, barge failure, sediment curtain
failure or erosion control failure. Emergency booms should be on-site, and
deployed immediately.
5.) All incident reports should have a 1-month and 6-month follow up by the
Environmental Team with a report directly to Doug Shipman. Monthly reports
should include the status of each incident to resolution. Resolution is defined as the
area impacted returning to the pre-impacted conditions (or established restoration).
6.) Reports and follow up action will be documented and filed electronically on the
project ftp site for team review
A review of incidents and incident reporting will be reviewed after one year to measure the
success or shortcomings of the protocol. Residents in the adjacent community will be made
aware of the incident reporting protocol. We would encourage people to file a report on
observations that concern them so that we can either correct the problem, or explain any
misconceptions.
Contact Information:
BBC Project Manager:
Doug Shipman
[email protected]
BBC Environmental and Community Relations Manager:
Livingston Marshall
[email protected]
Environmental Management Team:
Kathleen Sullivan-Sealey
[email protected]
Nicolle Cushion
[email protected]
43
Figure 20. Baker’s Bay Club Environmental Incident Report.
BAKERS BAY CLUB – ENVIRONMENTAL INCIDENT REPORT
DATE OF REPORT SUBMISSION:
DATE or TIMEFRAME OF INCIDENT
AUTHOR:
SUMMARY OF EVENT: (BRIEF account of what happened, where did it occur, who was
involved)
Action entity:
General contractors
Environmental Management Team
Trespassers
Sub-contractors
Other _________________
Unknown
Key Educational Points: One or more key points (short, several words) that indicate the
lessons learned or reinforced by the incident (e.g. all crews should carry a first Aid kit,
plants need to marked more visibly, etc.)
1.
2.
3.
Injuries and property damage (and any other negative impact) caused by incident:
Describe the extent and nature of any damage and personnel injuries. Include a brief
description of any “intangible” losses (e.g. worker moral, negative publicity, etc.)
Primary cause of the incident: Also include secondary and tertiary causes and
mitigating factors as appropriate.
Recommended Corrective Action – Describe the recommendations that were made or
programs implemented to prevent a reoccurrence of the incident.
Photographs: Digital or hard copies of photos would be very useful. The
Environmental team will photograph the site within two weeks in no photos are taken.
44
Photos should be submitted with a brief description in .jpg, gif or other electronic format.
Incident Description: Specific description (two to three paragraphs) description of what
happened – who, what, how, why? Please provide general information about the
personnel involved.
SIGNATURE OF AUTHOR _______________________________________________
DATE RECEIVED BY DLC _______________________
DATE RECEIVED BY ENVIRONMENTAL TEAM ______________
45
Appendix 1. Map of grid system for monitoring.
46
Appendix 2. Map of buffer zones for Baker’s Bay Club.
47
Appendix 3. References for monitoring protocols and procedures.
Bowker, J M. Leeworthy, Vernon R. “Nonmarket Economic User Values of the Florida Keys/Key
West.” Linking the Economy and Environment of Florida Keys/Florida Bay. Monroe County
Tourist Development Council. Florida. ©October 1997.
Chiappone, Mark: Editor. “Fisheries Investigations and Management Implications in Marine
Protected Areas of the Caribbean” A Series on Science Tools for Marine Park Management, Part
One. The Nature Conservancy. Arlington, Virginia. ©2001
Chiappone, Mark: Editor. “Water Quality Conservation in Marine Protected Areas.” A Series on
Science Tools for Marine Park Management, Part Two. The Nature Conservancy. Arlington,
Virginia. ©2001.
Chiappone, Mark: Editor. “Coral Reef Conservation in Marine Protected Areas” A Series on
Science Tools for Marine Park Management, Part Three. The Nature Conservancy. Arlington,
Virginia. ©2001.
English, Donald B K. Kriesel, Warren. Leeworthy, Vernon R. Wiley, Peter C. “Economic
Contribution of Recreating Visitors to the Florida Keys/Key West.” Linking the Economy and
Environment of Florida Keys/Florida Bay. Monroe County Tourist Development Council.
Florida. ©November 1996.
Leeworthy, Vernon R. Wiley, Peter C. “A Socioeconomic Analysis of the Recreating Activities
of Monroe County Residents in the Florida Keys/Key West.” Linking the Economy and
Environment of Florida Keys/Florida Bay. Monroe County Tourist Development Council.
Florida. ©August 1997.
Lalli, Carol M. Maita, Yoshiaki. Parsons, Timothy R. A Manual of Chemical and Biological
Methods for Seawater Analysis. Pergamon International Library. New York, New York. ©1984.
Sullivan Sealey, Kathleen. “Assessment Methods and Protocols: 2004 Field Guide.” Coastal
Ecology of The Bahamas. University of Miami Department of Biology. Coral Gables, Florida.
©2004.
48
Appendix 4. References on the ecological impacts of development.
Coastal Ecology of the Bahamas Website, University of Miami.
http://henge.bio.miami.edu/coastalecology/
Diaz, P, JJ Lopez & ML Piriz. 2002. Symptoms of eutrophication in intertidal macroalgal
assemblages of Nuevo Gulf (Patagonia, Argentina). Botanica Marina 45: 267-273.
Dubinsky, Z & N Stambler. 1996. Marine pollution and coral reefs. Global Change Biology
2: 511-526.
Grigg, RW. 1994. Effects of sewage discharge, fishing pressure, and habitat complexity on coral
ecosystems and reef fishes in Hawaii. Marine Ecology Progress Series 103: 25-34.
Guidetti, P, G Fanelli, S Fraschetti, A Terlizzi & F Boero. 2002. Coastal fish indicate humaninduced changes in the Mediterranean littoral. Marine Environmental Research 53: 77-94.
Herrnkind, W, MJ Butler IV & RA Tankersley. 1988. The effects of siltation on recruitment
of spiny lobsters, Panulirus argus. Fishery Bulletin 86: 331-338.
Hourigan, T, TC Tricas & ES Reese. 1988. Coral reef fishes as indicators of environmental stress
in coral reefs. In D. Soule & GS Kleppel (eds.) Marine organisms as indicators. Springer-Verlag,
New York. 342pp.
Jackson, JBC, MX Kirby, WH Berger, KA Bjorndal, LW Botsford, BJ Bourque, RH Bradbury, R
Cooke, J Erlandson, JA Estes, TP Hughes, S Kidwell, CB Lange, HS Lenihan, JM Pandolfi, CH
Peterson, RS Steneck, MJ Tegner, & RR Warner. 2001. Historical Overfishing and the recent
collapse of coastal ecosystems. Science 293: 629-638.
Lapointe, B. 1997. Nutrient thresholds for bottom-up control of macroalgal blooms on coral
reefs in Jamaica and southeast Florida. Limnology and Oceanography 42: 1119-1131.
Lapointe, B, DA Tomasko & WR Matzie. 1994. Eutrophication and trophic state
classification of seagrass communities in the Florida Keys. Bulletin of Marine Science 54:
696-717.
LaPointe, B, PJ Barile & WR Matzie. 2004. Anthropogenic nutrient enrichment of seagrass and
coral reef communities in the Lower Florida Keys: discrimination of local versus regional
nitrogen sources. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 308: 23-58.
Lin, H & J Hung 2004. Factors affecting macroalgal distribution in a eutrophic tropical lagoon in
Taiwan. Marine Biology 144: 653-664.
Sealey, K, B Brunnick, S Harzen, C Luton, V Nero & L Flowers. 2002. An Ecoregional Plan
for the Bahamian Archipelago. The Nature Conservancy, Taras Oceanographic Foundation,
Jupiter, FL.
Sealey, K. 2004. Large-scale ecological impacts of development on tropical island systems:
comparison of developed and undeveloped islands in the central Bahamas. MEPS. &5(2)
49
295-320.
Sealey, K, AL Flowers, VL Nero, KL Semon & J Wilson. 2004. Characterization and
Ranking of Coastal Environments of the Bahamian Archipelago: a database for protection
and policy. Bahamas Journal of Science 11(2), 12-25.
Sealey, NE. 1985. Bahamian landscapes; an introduction to the physical geography of the
Bahamas. Collins Caribbean, London.
Smith, G, FT Short & DI Kaplan. 1990. Distributions and biomass of seagrasses in San
Salvador, Bahamas. In R Smith (ed.) Proceedings of the Third Symposium on the Botany of
the Bahamas.
Smith, J, CM Smith & CL Hunter. 2001. An experimental analysis of the effects of herbivory
and nutrient enrichment on benthic community dynamics on a Hawaiian reef. Coral Reefs 19:
332-342.
Stephens, A, JE Hose & MS Love. 1988. Fish assemblages as indicators of environmental change
in nearshore environments. In D. Soule & GS Kleppel (eds.) Marine organisms as indicators.
Springer-Verlag, New York. 342pp.
Umar, M, LF McCook & IR Price. 1998. Effects of sediment deposition on the seaweed
Sargassum on a fringing coral reef. Coral Reefs 17: 169-177.
Wenner, A. 1988. Crustaceans and other invertebrates as indicators of beach pollution. In D.
Soule & GS Kleppel (eds.) Marine organisms as indicators. Springer-Verlag, New York. 342pp.
50
Appendix 5. Plants found on Bakers Bay Club property listed by nativity, conservation status and landscape potential.
I
Abundance Rare
CPPLB
CITES
Nativity
FullName (Corrells)
CommonName
Native
Acacia choriophylla
Cinnecord
R
NO
NO
Residences, Parks, Medians, Buffers
LandscapePotential
Native
Acrostichum aureum
Giant Fern
R
NO
NO
A large accent fern in wet areas along
the coast. It is especially useful
along the edges of brackish or
saltwater ponds and marshes.
Native
Exotic
Unknown
Native
Acrostichum danaeifolium
Agave sisalana
Agave sp.
Alternanthera maritima
Giant leather fern
Sisal
Beach Alternanthera
R
R
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Ambrosia hispida
Sweet Bay
U
NO
NO
Native
Amyris elemifera
Torchwood
U
NO
NO
Native
Bushy Beard Grass
R
NO
NO
Native
Native
Andropogon glomeratus
var. pumilus
Andropogon longiberbis
Ardisia escallonioides
Broom sedge
Marlberry
R
R
NO
YES
NO
NO
Specimen shrub; buffer plantings;
edge or understory shrub in
hammocks
Native
Mallotonia gnaphalodes
Bay Lavender
U
NO
NO
Specimen shrub; shrub in beach
dunes
Native
Native
Aristolochia pentandra
Avicennia germinans
Pitcher plant
Black Mangrove
R
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Baccharis angustifolia
NO Willow
R
NO
NO
Best used as a componant of beach
dune or coastal strand habitat
planting.
Groundcover in open, coastal
uplands; herb in beach dunes
Small specimen tree; buffer
plantings; edges of coastal hammocks
In coastal areas where protected from
wind and boat wake; tidal swamps
Accent shrub in moist areas; tidal
marshes
51
Native
Baccharis dioica
U
NO
NO
Baccharis halimifolia
Batis maritima
Bidens alba
Caraxeron vermicularis
Borrichia arborescens
Broom brush, Vahl's
Baccharis
Groundsel
Saltwort
White Beggars Tick
Samphire, Saltweed
Sea Ox-eye
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
R
R
R
R
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Cultivated Exotic
Native
Bouganvillea glabra
Bourreria ovata
Bouganvillea
Strong-back
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Bumelia americana
C
NO
NO
Native
Bursera simaruba
C
NO
NO
Shade tree; canopy tree in hammocks
Native
Byrsonima lucida
Wild Saffron, MilkBerry
Gum-elemi,Gumbo
Limbo, West Indian
Birch
Locust Berry
R
NO
NO
Accent flowering shrub; buffer
plantings; rockland hammock edges
Native
Caesalpinia bonduc
Gray Nickers
R
NO
NO
(Thorny barriers; coastal strand and
edges of maritime hammocks)
Native
Cakile lanceolata
C
NO
NO
Native
Calyptranthes pallens
Southern Sea Rocket,
Pork Bush
Spice-wood
R
NO
NO
Specimen tree or shrub; buffer
plantings; informal hedges; rockland
hammocks
Native
Calyptranthes zuzygium
Myrtle-of-the-river
R
YES
NO
Native
Canavalia rosea
Bay-bean, Horse-bean
U
NO
NO
rockland hammocks
Vine on trellis; coastal beaches and
coastal strand
Exotic
Native
Native
Exotic
Carica papaya
Casearia nitida
Cassytha filiformis
Casuarina equisetifolia
Papaya
Smooth Casearia
Love Vine
Australian Pine
R
R
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
(Accent shrub; forest edges)
Coastal marshes and swamps
Accent coastal wildflower; bedding
plant; coastal wetlands
Specimen shrub; rockland hammocks
and hammock edges
-
52
Exotic
Native
Catheranthus rosea
Cattleyopsis lindenii
Native
Native
Native
Cenchrus echinatus
Cenchrus incertus
Centrosema virginianum
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Cephalocereus bahamensis
Cestrum bahamense
Euphorbia blodgettii
Euphorbia hypericifolia
Euphorbia
mesembryanthemifolia
Cassia nictitans
Chiococca alba
Native
Native
Madagascar Periwinkle
Linden's Cattleyopsis
Orchid
Southern burgrass
Sand spur
Butterfly-pea, Lady's
Slipper
R
R
NO
YES
NO
NO
U
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Bahama Dildo
Cestrum
Spurge
Eyebane
Coast Spurge
R
U
R
R
U
YES
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Hairy sensitive-pea
Snowberry
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Eupatorium odoratum
Chrysobalanus icaco
Bitter bush, Tonka bean
Cocoplum
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Citharexylum fruticosum
R
NO
NO
Native
Native
Cladium jamaicense
Coccothrinax argentata
Long Tom, Spicate
Fiddlewood
Sawgrass
Silver Thatch, Silvertop, Bay-Top
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Coccoloba diversifolia
Pigeon Plum
C
NO
NO
Native
Native
Coccoloba swartzii
Coccoloba tenuifolia
Tie-tongue
Bahama Pigeon-plum
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
II
Vine on trellis; wildflower gardens;
understory wildflower in pinelands
and coastal uplands
II
-
Buffer plantings; hammock edges
Specimen shrub; trimmed hedge;
buffer plantings; wet forests
Small accent palm; narrow road
medians; understory shrub in pine
rocklands and coastal hammocks
Specimen tree; buffer plantings;
canopy tree in hammocks
53
Native
Coccoloba uvifera
Sea Grape
U
NO
NO
Large shade tree; buffer plantings;
canopy tree in coastal hammocks
Exotic
Native
Cocos nucifera
Conocarpus erectus
Coconut
Buttonwood
U
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Conyza canadensis
Corchorus hirsutus
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Cordia bahamensis
Cordia sebestena
U
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Crossopetalum rhacoma
Smooth Horseweed
Wooly corchorus, Jack
switch
Cocobey
Geiger Tree, Anaconda,
Spanish Cordia
Poison Cherry
R
NO
NO
Native
Native
Exotic
Cynanchum eggersii
Cynanchum northropiae
Cynodon dactylon
R
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Cyperus planifolius
C
NO
NO
Exotic
Dactyloctenium aegyptium
U
NO
NO
Native
Desmodium canum
R
NO
NO
-
Native
Dicliptera sexangularis
Eggers' milkvine
Northrop's milkvine
Bermuda Grass,
Bahama Grass
Sand Cyperus, Coast
Cyperus
Crowfoot Grass,
Egyptian Grass
Common Tick-trefoil,
Wild Granite
NO-mint
R
NO
NO
Wildflower beds; hammock edges
Native
Distichlis spicata
Seashore Salt-grass
R
NO
NO
Wet hypersaline areas; tidal marshes
Native
Drypetes diversifolia
Whitewood
C
NO
NO
Specimen tree; rockland hammocks
Specimen tree; trimmed hedge (silver
buttonwood); canopy tree in coastal
hammocks along edges of mangrove
forests
-
Accent shrub; edges of pine
rocklands and rockland hammock
Coarse sedge in open coastal uplands
54
Native
Echites umbellata
Devil's Potato-root,
Wild Potato, Rubber
Vine, Danish
C
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Cassine xylocarpa
Encyclia boothiana
Encyclia rufa
U
R
U
NO
YES
YES
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Native
Eragrostis ciliaris
Eragrostis elliottii
Eragrostis excelsa
Erithalis fruticosa
Olive Wood
Dollar Orchid
Bahama Encyclia
orchid
Lovegrass
Elliott's lovegrass
Tall Lovegrass
Black Torch
R
R
C
C
NO
NO
YES
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Ernodea littoralis
Common Ernodea
C
NO
NO
Native
Rat-wood
R
NO
NO
Native
Erythroxylum
rotundifolium
Eugenia axillaris
White Stopper, Wattle
C
NO
NO
Native
Native
Eugenia confusa
Eugenia foetida
Ironwood
Spanish Stopper, Black
Wattle
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Eugenia rhombea
Eupatorium capillifolium
Eupatorium havanense
R
R
U
NO
NO
YES
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Native
Eupatorium lucayanum
Euphorbia cayensis
Euphorbia trichotoma
Eustachys petraea
Red stopper
Dog Fennel
Havana Thoroughwort,
Cat Tongue
Lucayan Thoroughwort
Bahama Spurge
Sanddune spurge
Finger-grass, West
Indian Grass
U
R
R
U
YES
YES
YES
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Vine on trellises and fences;
hammock edges; understory
wildflower in pine rocklands and
coastal strand
II
II
Epiphyte on hardwood trees
Groundcover in dry, open areas; rock
gardens; pine rocklands and coastal
strand
Buffer plantings; mid-story in
hammocks
Accent shrub or small tree; buffer
plantings; coastal hammocks and
hammock edges
-
Seasides, Adaptable, Dry open areas
55
Native
Exothea paniculata
Butter Bough
R
NO
NO
Accent tree; mid-story in hammocks
Native
Native
Native
Ficus aurea
Ficus citrifolia
Forestiera segregata
Golden Wild Fig
Short-leaved Wild Fig
Ink Bush, Florida
Privet, Blueberry
R
U
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Specimen tree; hammocks
Accent shrub or tree; buffer
plantings; hammocks and hammock
edges
Native
Native
Galactia rudolphioides
Casasia clusiifolia
Red milk pea
Seven Year Apple
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Guapira discolor
Beefwood, Pigeonberry, Narrow-leaved
Blolly
C
YES
YES
Native
Native
Native
Guapira obtusata
Guettarda krugii
Gyminda latifolia
R
U
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Ateramnus lucidus
Broad-leaved Blolly
Frogwood
NO Boxwood, Wallaberry
Crabwood
C
NO
NO
Native
Seaside Heliotrope,
Pondweed
Hibiscus
R
NO
NO
R
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Native
Heliotropium
curassavicum
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis var.
rosa-sinensis
Hippomane mancinella
Hydrocotyle sp.
Hymenocallis arenicola
Ipomoea alba
Manchineel
Marsh pennywort
Spider Lilly
Moon-vine
R
R
U
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Ipomoea indica
Morning Glory
R
NO
NO
Native
Ipomoea micradactyla
Wild Potato
R
NO
NO
Cultivated Exotic
Specimen shrub or small tree; buffer
coastal strand
Accent tree or shrub; buffer
plantings; hammocks and hammock
edges
Specimen tree or shrub; hammocks
Accent tree; buffer plantings;
rockland hammocks
Disturbed wet coastal sites; tidal
marshes
Accent tree; hammocks
Fence covering; buffer plantings;
hammock edges
Fence covering; buffer plantings;
hammock edges
Rock gardens; understory wildflower
in pine rocklands
56
Native
Ipomoea pes-caprae
Bay Hops, Bay
Winders
R
NO
NO
Exotic
Ipomoea triloba
R
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Ipomoea violacea
Iresine canescens
Iva imbricata
Three-lobed
morningglory
Moon vine
New-burn Weed
Beach Iva
R
U
R
NO
YES
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Jacquemontia cayensis
Jacquinia keyensis
U
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Eupatorium villosum
Krugiodendron ferreum
Laguncularia racemosa
Clustervine
Joe-wood, Joe-bush,
Ironwood
Jackmada, Bitter sage
Strong Back
White Mangrove,
Bastard Buttonwood,
Green Turtle Bough
R
R
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Lantana bahamensis
Lantana involucrata
Bahama sage
Wild Sage, Big Sage
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Lasiacis divaricata
U
NO
NO
Native
Exotic
Leiphaimos parasitica
Leucaena leucocephala
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
U
NO
NO
C
YES
NO
Native
Malpighia polytricha ssp.
confusa
Malvaviscus arboreus var.
cubensis
Manilkara bahamensis
Wild Cane, Cane-grass,
Tibisee
Ghost plant
Jumbie Bean, Jimbay,
Cowbush, Jump-and-go
Touch-me-not, Wildcherry
Sagra's Malvaviscus
Wild Dilly
C
NO
NO
Exotic
Native
Manilkara zapota
Maytenus phyllanthoides
Sapodilla
Mayten
R
R
NO
YES
NO
NO
Native
uplands; wildflower in beach dunes
and coastal strand
Hammocks and edges
uplands; shrub in beach dunes and
coastal strand
Specimen shrub
Accent shrub; buffer plantings;
hammock edges
Accent grass; hammocks and
hammock edges
-
Specimen tree or shrub; buffer
hammock edges
Specimen shrub; edges of tidal
swamps and marshes
57
Native
Melanthera aspera
Snow squarestem
C
NO
NO
Native
Metopium toxiferum
Poison Wood, Poison
Tree
C
NO
NO
Native
Morinda royoc
Wild Mulberry,
Rhubarb
R
YES
NO
Exotic
Cultivated Exotic
Native
Native
Nephrolepis multiflora
Nerium oleander
Neurodium lanceolatum
Nectandra coriacea
Asian sword fern
Common Oleander
Narrow-leaved-brake
Bastard Torch, Black
Torch, Sweet
Torchwood
R
R
R
R
NO
NO
YES
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Exotic
Native
Oeceoclades maculata
Oncidium floridanum
R
R
NO
YES
NO
NO
II
II
Native
Oncidium sasseri
R
YES
NO
II
Native
Opuntia stricta
African ground orchid
Florida dancinglady
orchid
Sasser's dancing lady
orchid
Prickly Pear
R
YES
NO
II
Native
Panicum amarulum
Sea-beach grass
U
YES
NO
Exotic
Native
Panicum maximum
Paspalum caespitosum
Guinea Grass
Slender Paspalum
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Paspalum paniculatum
Paspalum setaceum
Passiflora cupraea
R
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Thin paspalum
Devil's Pumpkin, Wild
Watermelon, Smooth
Passion-flower
Accent wildflower; wildflower in
open, coastal uplands
Canopy tree in rockland and coastal
hammocks; shrub along pine
rockland edges
Rock gardens; viney understory
shrub in pine rocklands, hammocks
and coastal uplands
rockland and coastal hammocks
Specimen shrub; understory shrub in
pinelands and coastal uplands
Accent grass; large grass in open,
coastal uplands
Informal groundcover; rock
gardens;understory of hammocks and
pinelands
58
Native
Passiflora suberosa
Juniper-berry, Small
Passion flower
C
NO
NO
Informal groundcover; understory
herb in pinelands, hammocks, and
coastal uplands
Native
Urechites lutea
Wild Unction,
Catesby's Vine
C
NO
NO
Fence and trellis covering. In
restorations, in rockland and coastal
hammock edges.
Native
Picramnia pentandra
Bitter Bush, Snake-root
R
NO
NO
Native
Piscidia piscipula
R
NO
NO
Native
Pithecellobium keyense
Fish Poison, Jamaica
Dogwood
Black bead, Ram's-horn
Screening, Yard tree/shrub, Butterfly
garden shrub
Accent tree; coastal forests
C
NO
NO
Native
Pluchea symphytifolia
R
NO
NO
Native
Cultivated Exotic
Euphorbia cyathophora
Polyscias guilfoylei
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
-
Native
Psychotria ligustrifolia
Bushy Fleabane, Southbush, Cough-bush,
Wild Tobacco
Paintedleaf
Geranium aralia, Wild
coffee
Smmoth Wild Coffee
C
NO
NO
Informal hedges; buffer plantings;
understory of rockland hammocks
Native
Southern bracken
R
NO
NO
Native
Pteridium aquilinum var.
caudatum
Randia aculeata
Box Briar
C
NO
NO
understory and mid-story of
hammocks; hammock edges
Native
Myrsine floridana
Myrsine
R
NO
NO
Native
Reynosia septentrionalis
Darling Plum
U
NO
NO
hammock edges
Specimen shrub or small tree;
rockland hammock edges
Native
Native
Rhabdadenia biflora
Rhachicallis americana
Mangrove swamp vine
Hog-bush, Sandflybush, Saltwater-bush,
Sea-weed, Wild Thyme
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
Specimen shrub or small tree; coastal
hammocks
-
59
Native
Rhizophora mangle
Red Mangrove
U
NO
NO
Native
Native
Rhynchosia minima
Rivina humilis
R
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
Groundcover in forests
Native
Native
Ruppia maritima
Salicornia virginica
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Salmea petrobioides
Savia bahamensis
Least snoutbean
Wild Tomato, Pigeonberry
Widgeon-grass
Woody Glasswort,
Wild Coral, Guineabead
Shanks, Bush Salmea
Maiden Bush
U
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Scaevola plumieri
R
NO
NO
Exotic
Exotic
Scaevola taccada
Schefflera actinophora
Inkberry, Black Soap,
Mad Moll
Hawaiian-seagrape
Queensland umbrella
tree
U
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Serjania subdentata
Sesuvium portulacastrum
Sea pickle, seapurslane
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Groundcover in open, coastal areas;
beach dunes and coastal marshes
Native
Native
Sida acuta
Bumelia celastrina
Wire-weed
Narrow-leaved Bumelia
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Mastichodendron
foetidissimum
Mastic Ironwood,
Mastic-bully
U
NO
NO
Spiny barrier; coastal berms; edges of
mangrove swamps
Specimen or shade tree. Highly
recommended for rockland and
coastal hammock restorations
throughout much of South Florida.
Native
Sideroxylon salicifolium
R
NO
NO
Native
Native
Simarouba glauca
Smilax auriculata
Wild Cassada, Cassadawood
Paradise tree
Auricled Green Briar,
China-brier
R
C
YES
NO
NO
NO
rockland hammocks and rockland
hammock edges
Accent shrub; beach dunes and
coastal strand
Accent tree; buffer plantings; canopy
in hammocks
-
60
Native
Smilax havanensis
Prickly Green-brier,
Saw brier, Chaney-vine
Ink berry, Gooma bush
Canker-berry
U
NO
NO
-
Native
Native
Solanum americanum
Solanum bahamense
R
C
NO
NO
NO
NO
Specimen shrub; coastal hammocks
Native
Solanum erianthum
R
NO
NO
Sophora tomentosa
Salve-bush, Wild
Tobacco
Coast Sophora
Native
R
NO
NO
coastal hammock edges; coastal
strand
Native
Spartina patens
Saltmeadow Cordgrass
U
NO
NO
Groundcover in coastal areas; coastal
marshes and beach dunes
Native
Spartina spartinae
Gulf Cordgrass
R
NO
NO
Coarse groundcover in brackish
coastal areas; coastal marshes
Exotic
Borreria verticillata
R
NO
NO
Native
Sporobolus domingensis
R
NO
NO
-
Native
Sporobolus virginicus
Shrubby NO
buttonweed
Dominican dropseed
grass
Seashore Rush-grass
U
NO
NO
Groundcover in coastal areas; coastal
marshes and beach dunes
Exotic
Stenotaphrum secundatum
Native
Native
R
NO
NO
Suaeda linearis
Suriana maritima
St. Augustine Grass,
Running Crabgrass
Tall Sea-blite
Bay Cedar, Tassel Plant
R
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Swietenia mahagoni
Madeira, Mahogany
R
YES
YES
Native
Native
Tabebuia bahamensis
Tabebuia bahamensis
R
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
Exotic
Terminalia catappa
R
NO
NO
Exotic
Thespesia populnea
Five finger
Beef-bush, Fumwood,
Above-all, White Cedar
Indian Almond,
Almond-tree
Seaside Mahoe, Cork-
R
NO
NO
II
Specimen shrub; coastal strand and
thickets
Specimen tree; canopy tree in
rockland hammocks
61
Native
Thrinax morrissii
tree, Spanish Cork
Small-fruited Thatchpalm, Buffalo-top
C
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Tillandsia balbisiana
Tillandsia circinnata
Tillandsia utriculata
Cuttlefish
Silvery wild-pine
Swollen Wild Pine
R
R
U
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Native
Tournefortia volubilis
Trema lamarckianum
Triopteris jamaicensis
Turnera ulmifolia
Soldier-bush
Pain-in-back
R
R
R
R
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Uniola paniculata
U
NO
NO
Native
Native
Native
Vitis munsoniana
Waltheria indica
Zanthoxylum coriaceum
R
R
U
YES
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
Native
Zanthoxylum flavum
R
NO
NO
Native
Ziziphus taylori
R
YES
NO
Yellow elder, Ramgoat-dash-along
Sea Oats
Wild grape
Sleepy Morning
Hercules' Club,
Doctor's Club
Yellow-wood, Satin
wood
Ziziphus
hammock edges; shrub in pine
rocklands
Accent epiphyte; on live oaks along
forest edges
-
Accent grass in coastal uplands;
dominant grass in beach dunes and
also in coastal strand
Residences, Parks, Specimen plant
62
Appendix 6. Critical Conservation Plants of Baker’s Bay Club
“Critical Conservation Status”
Plants
of Baker’s Bay Club
One environmental goal of the Baker’s Bay Club is to maintain AT LEAST 80% of
the 213 plant species currently on the property in healthy populations postconstruction. To achieve this goal, some plants need special consideration during
construction. This document outlines priority plant species to be conserved or
relocated. This list represents a diverse group of trees, grasses, shrubs and flowers
of which the Bahamian Government and the international community have
recognized as warranting protection. Some of the rare tropical plants listed here
have been formally recognized by Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES). Many species on the property have been
listed in Appendix II, which includes species which are not necessarily threatened
with extinction, but in which trade must be controlled in order to avoid utilization
incompatible with their survival.
For construction, the plants have been ranked in order of removal and
transplantation priority.
RANK 1 = Every specimen is important. These species must be left in place or
removed with extreme care and transplanted to the nursery.
RANK 2 = Save as many specimens as possible, but not as vulnerable as the first
set. Loss on individuals must be recorded in an incident report.
RANK 3 = Important conservation species for propagation and landscaping, Save or
salvage as many as possible.
63
RANK 1 – PRESERVE OR RELOCATE ALL SPECIMENS
Marlberry
Ardisia
escallonioides
This known from
the Bahamas only
on the northern
islands. It also
occurs in Florida,
the Greater
Antilles, and
Central America.
At Baker’s Bay is
grows in coppices.
It is a large
evergreen shrub
and usually grows
to about 12 feet in
height.
Photo Courtesy of IRC
RANK 2 – PROTECT AS MANY AS POSSIBLE – RECORD AREAS
WHERE SPECIMENS ARE LOST
Bushy Seaside
Oxeye
Borrichia frutescens
This small shrub is known
to grow in the Bahamas
only in Grand Bahama
and the Abacos. It occurs
in sunny to partially
shaded habitats with
periodically flooded
brackish or saline soils. It
usually grows to about 1
meter tall (3 feet) and
leaves may appear gray
because of their fine
silvery hairs.
64
Myrtle-of-theRiver
Calyptranthes
zuzygium
This small tree is
known to grow in the
Bahamas only on
the northern Islands.
It occurs in coppices
and can reach a
mature height of 20
feet.
RANK 1 – PRESERVE OR RELOCATE ALL
SPECIMENS
Cattleyopsis
Orchid
Cattleyopsis lindenii
This is an epiphytic
orchid that is listed
by CITES in
Appendix II. The
species is
widespread in the
Bahamas and also
occurs in Cuba. It
grows on a variety of
trees in shade and
partial shade.
Photo Courtesy of Keith Bradley
65
Key Tree Cactus
Cephalocereus
bahamensis
This large cactus listed
by CITES in Appendix II.
It is known to grow in the
Bahamas only from Cat
Island, Andros Island,
and northwards. It grows
in coppices on sand or
rock. At Baker’s Bay it is
found in the coastal
coppice just east of
Jones's Bay. It can reach
a mature height of 10
meters (30 feet).
SPECIMENS
SPECIMENS
Dollar Orchid
Encyclia boothiana
This is an
epiphytic orchid
that is listed by
CITES in Appendix
II. It is known to
grow in the
Bahamas only in
the northern
islands.
66
RANK 1 – PRESERVE OR
g. Flora of Texas RELOCATE ALL
Conservancy
SPECIMENS
Rufous Butterfly
Orchid
Encyclia rufa
This is an epiphytic or
terrestrial orchid that is
listed by CITES in
Appendix II. The species
is widespread in the
Bahamas and may also
occur in Cuba. It grows
on a variety of trees in
shade and partial shade.
Lovegrass
Eragrostis
excelsa
This grass is
known to grow in
the Bahamas
only in the
northern islands.
It is also found in
Cuba. At Baker’s
Bay it is found in
a variety of open
sunny habitats
including dunes
and disturbed
areas.
67
Havana
Snakeroot
Eupatorium
havanense
This small shrub
is known to grow
in the Bahamas
only on the
northern islands.
It also occurs in
Cuba, Texas,
and Mexico. At
Baker’s Bay it is
found in
coppices and
slightly disturbed
uplands.
Lucayan
Thoroughwart
Eupatorium lucayanum
This small shrub is
endemic to the Bahamas
and occurs throughout
the archipelago. At
Baker’s Bay it is found in
coppices and slightly
disturbed uplands.
USDA NCRS
68
WHERE PECIMENS ARE LOST
Bahama Spurge
Euphorbia hayensis
This herb is endemic
to the Bahamas
where it occurs in San
Salvador, the northern
islands, and Cay Sal
or the Angular Cays .
At Baker’s Bay it is
found in open sand in
full sun on dunes or
slightly disturbed
areas.
SDA NCRS
Sanddune
Spurge
Euphorbia
trichotoma
This herb is known
to grow in the
Bahamas only on
the northern
islands. At Baker’s
Bay it grows on
dunes.
Offwell
69
Beeftree; Blolly
Guapira discolor
This tree is listed by
the Bahamas. It
occurs throughout the
Bahamas, Florida, the
Greater Antilles, and
Grand Cayman. At
Baker’s Bay it is a
common to abundant
tree. A survey done
by Bethell
Environmental found
that in coppices this
species occurs at
high densities in the
coppices.
L. Pauwels
Juba’s Bush
Iresine canescens
This herb is known in the
Bahamas only in the
Abacos and Grand
Bahama Island. It also
occurs in the
southeastern United
States, the Caribbean,
and continental tropical
America. At Baker’s Bay
it occurs on the windward
side of the island in
coppices.
University of Texas
70
RANK 3 : SAVE AS POSSIBLE, IMPORTANT FOR LANDSCAPING
Wax Mallow;
Turk’s Cap
Malvaviscus arboreus
var. cubensis
This shrub is known in
the Bahamas only on
the Abacos and
Grand Bahama
Island. It also occurs
in Cuba. At Baker’s
Bay it is frequent in
coppices and in the
abandoned Disney
area.
University of Texas
Florida Mayten
Maytenus
phyllanthoides
This shrub is known in
the Bahamas only in the
Abacos and Grand
Bahama Island. It is
also known from
Florida, Cuba, Texas,
and Mexico. At Baker’s
Bay it occurs at the
ecotone between
mangrove wetlands and
coppice in the northern
part of the island.
RC
71
RANK 2 – PROTECT AS MANY AS
POSSIBLE – RECORD AREAS
Redgal
Morinda royoc
This scandent
shrub is known to
grow in the
Bahamas only in
the northern
islands. It is also
known to grow in
Florida, the
Caribbean, Central
and northern
South America. At
Baker’s Bay it
grows in coppices.
Countryside
Orchid
Oncidium sasseri
This epiphytic orchid is
endemic to the northern
Bahamas and is listed
by CITES in Appendix
II. This is the most
endangered plant
species at Baker’s
Bay. Only a few
collections of this
species have been
found in the Bahamas,
including two from
Andros, five from Great
Abaco
72
Erect
Pricklypear;
Shell-Mound
Pricklypear
Opuntia stricta
This cactus is listed
by CITES in
Appendix II. It
occurs throughout
the Bahamas, and
also occurs in
Florida, Mexico, and
the Caribbean. At
Baker’s Bay it grows
on dunes in cells I8
and I9, and at the
edge of coppice in
cell 12 in slightly
disturbed soil.
Bitter
Panicgrass
Panicum amarulum
This grass is known
to grow in the
Bahamas only on
the northern islands.
It also occurs in the
southeastern United
States, Mexico, and
the Caribbean. At
Baker’s Bay it is
frequently found on
beach dunes.
RANK 3 : SAVE AS POSSIBLE, IMPORTANT FOR LANDSCAPING
73
West Indian
Mahogany
Swietenia mahagoni
This tree is listed as
protected in the Bahamas
and is listed by CITES in
Appendix II. It occurs
throughout the Bahamas
and also in Florida,
Central and South
America, and the
Caribbean. It is protected
because of extensive
logging for the valuable
wood. At Baker’s Bay
Taylor’s Jujube
Photo Courtesy of True Patriot
Ziziphus taylori
This small tree is
endemic to the Bahamas.
It occurs throughout the
archipelago. At Baker’s
Bay it is frequent in
coppices.
Photo courtesy of IRC
74
Appendix 7. Epifauna (sea floor) diversity of near shore reefs of Great Guana Cay (*unknown).
FAMILY
GENUS
SPECIES
FAMILY
GENUS
SPECIES
ANEMONES
Actiniidae
Aiptasiidae
Aiptasiidae
Zoanthidae
Stichodactylidae
Zoanthidae
Zoanthidae
Aliciidae
Aliciidae
Corallimorphidae
Condylactis
Bartholomea
Aiptasia
Palythoa
Stichodactyla
Zoanthus
Zoanthus
Lebrunia
Lebrunia
Ricordea
gigantea
annulata
tagetes
caribaeorum
helianthus
sociatus
pulchellus
coralligens
danae
florida
MOLLUSKS
Arcidae
Limidae
Cardiidae
Cardiidae
Cardiidae
Pinnidae
Cardiidae
Lucinidae
Veneridae
Tellinidae
Arca
zebra
Lima
scabra
Trachycardium muricatum
Trachycardium magnum
Americardia
media
Atrina
rigida
Laevicardium
laevigatum
Codakia
orbicularis
Chione
cancellata
Tellina
radiata
Aplysiidae
Olividae
Aplysia
Oliva
dactylomela
reticularis
ANNELIDS
Terebellidae
*
*
Calyptraeidae
Crepidula
convexa
Capitellidae
Amphinomidae
*
*
Sabellidae
Serpulidae
Serpulidae
*
*
Hermodice
Notaulax
Notaulax
Bispira
Spirobranchus
Spirorbis
*
*
carunculata
occidentalis
nudicollis
brunnea
giganteus
spirorbis
* Ribbon Worm
CRUSTACEANS
Portunidae
Mithracidae
Xanthidae
Diogenidae
Portunidae
Palinuridae
Stenopodidae
Gonodactylidae
Diogenidae
Diogenidae
Diogenidae
Diogenidae
Alpehidae
Diogenidae
Corystidae
*
Littorinidae
Pinnidae
Fasciolariidae
Psammobiidae
Isognomonidae
Cerithiidae
Cerithiidae
Neritidae
Batillariidae
Trochidae
Littorina
Pinna
Fasciolaria
Asaphis
Isognomon
Cerithium
Cerithium
Nerita
Batillaria
Tegula
sp.
carnea
tulipa
deflorata
alatus
muscarum
litteratum
versicolor
minima
lividomaculata
*
Mithrax
*
Petrochirus
Callinectes
Panuliris
Stenopus
Gonodactylus
Paguristes
Paguristes
Paguristes
Calicinus
Alpheus
*
Corystes
*
*
*
*
diogenes
sp.
argus
hispidus
oerstedii
erythrops
punticepts
sp.
tibicen
armatus
* hermit
cassivelaunus
* Mantis Shrimp
Calliostomatidae
Ovulidae
Cassidae
Strombidae
Strombidae
Chitonidae
Neritidae
Muricidae
Muricidae
Acmaeidae
Littorinidae
Architectonicidae
Turbinidae
Semelidae
*
Cassidae
Calliostoma
Cyphoma
Cassis
Strombus
Strombus
Acanthopleura
Neritina
Chicoreus
Thais
Acmaea
Littorina
Architectonica
Turbo
Semele
*
Phalium
adelae
gibbosum
tuberosa
gigas
costatus
granulata
virginea
brevifrons
deltoidea
sp.
angulifera
nobilis
castanea
proficua
* scallop
granulatum
Hippidae
Mithracidae
Emerita
Mithrax
talpoida
spinosissimus
Tellinidae
Littorinidae
Tellina
Tectarius
listeri
muricatus
Alpehidae
Palaemonidae
Lysiosquillidae
*
Diogenidae
Synalpheus
Brachycarpus
Lysiosquilla
*
Dardanus
sp.
biunguiculatus
scabricauda
* crab
venosus
Ischnochitonidae
Trochidae
Octopodidae
Littorinidae
Ostreidae
Stenoplax
Cittarium
*
Littorina
Crassostrea
limaciformis
pica
* octopus
ziczac
rhizophorae
75
Diogenidae
Inachidae
Pycnogonidawe
Pagurus
Stenorhynchus
Pycnogonium
sp.
seticornis
sp
Chitonidae
Cerithiidae
Chiton
Barbatia
Cerithium
tuburculatus
cancellaria
eburneum
crispata
pelagica
phoebia
ECHINODERMS
Clypeasteridae
Holothuriidae
Toxopneustidae
Oreasteridae
Toxopneustidae
Diadematidae
Ophiocomidae
Ophidermatidae
Ophiocomidae
Ophiodiasteridae
Echinasteridae
Astropectinidae
Clypeaser
Holothuria
Lytechinus
Oreaster
Tripneustes
Diadema
Ophiocoma
Ophioderma
Ophiocoma
Ophidiaster
Echinaster
Astropecten
roseaceus
mexicana
variegatus
reticulatus
ventricosus
antillarum
echinata
appressum
paucigranulata
sp. (comet star)
sentus
articulatus
Turbinidae
Tridachia
Scyllaea
Astraea
SOFT CORALS
Briareidae
Gorgoniidae
Gorgoniidae
Gorgoniidae
Gorgoniidae
Gorgoniidae
Gorgoniidae
Plexauridae
Anthothelidae
Briareum
Pterogorgia
Pseudopterogorgia
Pseudopterogorgia
Gorgonia
Gorgonia
Gorgonia
Plexaurella
Erthryopodium
asbestinum
anceps
sp.
americana
sp.
sp.2
sp.3
fusifera
caribaeorum
Echinometridae
Echinmetridae
Holothuriidae
Ophiodiasteridae
Holothuriidae
Brissidae
Cidaridae
Mellitidae
Holothuriidae
Astropectinidae
Echinometridae
Ophiodermatidae
Ophiocomidae
Amphiuridae
*
Echinometra
Echinometra
Holothuria
Linckia
Actinopyga
Meoma
Eucidaris
Mellita
Holothuria
Astropecten
Echinometra
Ophioderma
Ophiocoma
Ophionereis
*
lucunter
viridis
glabberrima
guildingii
agassizi
ventricosa
tribuloides
sexiesperforata
sp.
duplicatus
sp.
sp.
sp.
reticulata
* Crinoid
Plexauridae
Plexauridae
Plexauridae
Plexauridae
Plexauridae
Plexauridae
Plexauridae
Plexauridae
Gorgoniidae
Gorgoniidae
Eunicea
Eunicea
Eunicea
Eunicea
Muricea
Plexaura
Plexuara
Plexaura
Pseudopterogorgia
Pseudopterogorgia
sp.
calyculata
succinea
mammosa
elongata
flexuosa
sp.
homomalla
anceps
guadalupensis
HARD CORALS
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
SPONGES
Chondrillidae
Dysideidae
Spongiidae
Spirastrellidae
Spongiidae
Chondrilla
Dysidea
Ircinia
Speciospongia
Ircinia
nucula
etheria
felix
vesparium
strobolina
Siderastrea
Siderastrea
Manicina
radians
siderea
areolata
Adociidae
Clionidae
Spirastrellidae
Siphonodictyon
Cliona
Anthosigmella
coralliphagum
sp.
varians
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Scleractinia
Favia
Porites
Porites
Meandrina
Agaricia
Dichocoenia
Montastrea
Diploria
Diploria
Diploria
Colpohyllia
fragum
porites
astreoides
meandrites
agaricites
stokesii
annularis
strigosa
clivosa
labyrinthiformis
natans
Myxillidae
Spongiidae
Spongiidae
Spongiidae
Raspailiidae
Agelasidae
Clionidae
Spongiidae
Haliclonidae
Haliclonidae
*
Tedania
Aplysina
Aplysina
Aplysina
Ectyoplasia
Agelas
Cliona
Spongia
Haliclona
Haliclona
*
ignis
fistularis
cliona
sp.
ferox
schmidti
langae
equina
viridis
sp.
* black boring
Clionidae
Mycalidae
Cliona
Mycale
sp.2
sp.
HYDROIDS
76
Plumulariidae
Plumulariidae
SERTULARIIDAE
Plumulariidae
Cassiopeidae
Cassiopeidae
Macrorhynchia
Macrorhynchia
Cnidoscyphus
Dentitheca
Millepora
Millepora
Cassiopea
Cassiopea
allmani
philippina
marginatus
dendritica
complanata
alcicornis
xamachana
frondosa
Mycalidae
Ulosa
Callyspongia
hispida
vaginalis
TUNICATES
Perophoridae
Styelidae
Polycitoridae
Styelidae
*
Perophoridae
Ecteinascidia
Symplegma
Distaplia
Botrylloides
*
Ecteinascidia
turbinata
viride
corolla
nigrum
Pork Rind Tunicate
turbinata
Perophoridae
Mnemiopsis
mccradyi
Appendix 8. Fish diversity for near shore R.E.E.F counts and beach seines for Great
Guana Cay.
Family
Acanthuridae
Acanthuridae
Acanthuridae
Atherinidae
Atherinidae
Balistidae
Belonidae
Carangidae
Carangidae
Carangidae
Carangidae
Carangidae
Chaetodontidae
Chaetodontidae
Clinidae
Cyprinidae
Dactylopteridae
Gerreidae
Gerreidae
Gerreidae
Gobiidae
Grammatidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Haemulidae
Holocentridae
Species (common Name)
Blue Tang
Doctorfish
Surgeonfish
Silversides
Silversides
Queen Triggerfish
Redfin Needlefish
Bar Jack
Yellow Jack
Bar Jack
Permit
Palometa
Banded B-fly
Spotfin B-fly
Dusky Blenny
Unknown Cyprinidon
Flying Gurnard
Yellowfin Mojarra
Flagfin Mojarra
Yellowfin Mojarra
Bridled Goby
Fairy Basslet
Bluestriped Grunt
Caesar Grunt
Cottonwick
French Grunt
Sailors Choice
Smallmouth Grunt
Tomtate
White Grunt
White Margate
Bluestriped Grunt
Blackbar Soldier
Family
Muglidae
Mullidae
Mullidae
Mullidae
Ostraciidae
Ostraciidae
Pomacanthidae
Pomacanthidae
Pomacanthidae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Pomacentridae
Rhinocodontidae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Scaridae
Sciaenidae
Serranidae
Serranidae
Species (common Name)
White Mullet
Spotted Goatfish
Yellow Goatfish
Yellow Goatfish
Honeycomb Cowfish
Trunkfish
French Angelfish
Gray Angelfish
Queen Angelfish
Blue Chromis
Brown Chromis
Beaugregory
Bicolor Damsel
Cocoa Damsel
Dusky Damsel
Longfin Damsel
Sergeant Major
Threespot Damsel
Yellowtail Damsel
Nurse Shark
Bucktooth Parrotfish
Greenblotch Parrot
Princess Parrot
Queen Parrot
Rainbow Parrot
Redband Parrot
Redfin (Yellowtail) Parrot
Stoplight Parrot
Striped Parrot
Unknown Parrotfish
High Hat
Black Grouper
Coney
77
Holocentridae
Kyphosidae
Labridae
Labridae
Labridae
Labridae
Labridae
Labridae
Labridae
Labridae
Labridae
Lutjanidae
Lutjanidae
Lutjanidae
Lutjanidae
Lutjanidae
Lutjanidae
Malacanthidae
Monacanthidae
Squirrelfish
Chub
Hogfish
Spanish Hogfish
Bluehead Wrasse
Clown Wrasse
Puddingwife
Slippery Dick
Yellowhead Wrasse
Blackear Wrasse
Slippery Dick
Gray Snapper
Mahogany Snapper
Mutton Snapper
Schoolmaster
Yellowtail Snapper
Schoolmaster
Tilefish, Sand
Scrawled Filefish
Serranidae
Serranidae
Soleidae
Sparidae
Sparidae
Sparidae
Sparidae
Sphyraenidae
Sphyraenidae
Synodontidae
Tetraodontidae
Tetraodontidae
Sphyraenidae
Sphyraenidae
Synodontidae
Tetraodontidae
Tetraodontidae
Nassau Grouper
Harlequin Bass
Scrawled Sole
Jolthead Porgy
Pluma
Saucereye Porgy
Sheepshead Porgy
Barracuda
Great Barracuda
Bluestriped Lizardfish
Sharpnose Puffer
Checkered Puffer
Barracuda
Great Barracuda
Bluestriped Lizardfish
Sharpnose Puffer
Checkered Puffer
Appendix 9. Near shore macro algae / plant diversity for Great Guana Cay.
Group
Blue-Green
Blue-Green
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Branched/Corticated
Bubble Shaped
Bubble Shaped
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Species
Aphanothece stagnina
Schizothrix
Acanthophora spicifera
Batophora oerstedii
Caulerpa cupressoides
Caulerpa prolifera
Chondria capillaris
Chondria littoralis
Codium isthmocaldum
Dasycladus vermicularis
Dictyota bartayresii
Dictyota cervicornis
Dictyota divaricata
Dictyota jamaicensis
Heterosiphonia gibbesei
Hypnea spinella
Laurencia intricata
Dictyosphaeria cavernosa
Ventricaria ventricosa
Amphiroa fragilissima
Galaxaura obtusata
Galaxaura rugosa
Halimeda goreauii
Halimeda incrassata
halimeda lacrimosa
Halimeda monile
Halimeda opuntia
Halimeda tuna
Group
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Calcareous/Jointed
Crustose Coralline
Crustose Coralline
Crustose Coralline
Fan-Shaped
Filamentous
Filamentous
Foliose/Leafy
Foliose/Leafy
Foliose/Leafy
Foliose/Leafy
Foliose/Leafy
Leathery
Leathery
Leathery
Leathery
Leathery
Leathery
Leathery
seagrass
seagrass
seagrass
Species
Jania adherens
Penicillus capitatus
Penicillus dumetosus
Penicillus pyriformis
Rhipocephalus phoenix
Udotea conglutinata
Udotea cyathiformis
Udotea flabellum
Neogoniolithon spectabile
Neogoniolithon strictum
Porolithon pachydermum
Avrainvillea fulva
Cladophora catenata
Derbesia sp.
Anadyomene stellata
Lobophora variegata
Microdictyon marinum
Padina sanctae-crucis
Stypopodium zonale
Dictyopteris jamaicensis
Dictyopteris justii
Sargassum hystix
Sargassum natans
Sargassum platycarpum
Turbinaria tricostata
Turbinaria turbinata
Halodule beaudettei
Syringodium filiforme
Thalassia testudinum
78
Appendix 10. Outline of environmental report for B.E.S.T. Commission
MONTHLY ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT TO B.E.S.T. COMMISSION
BAKERS BAY CLUB
Environmental Monitoring for Sustainable Development: Baker’s Bay Club
Prepared by Dr. Kathleen Sullivan-Sealy and Ms. Nicolle Cushion
University of Miami
DATE
PROJECT MISSION AND OBJECTIVES
• Document best practices in sustainable development in the Bahamas.
• Report on the performance of the Baker’s Bay Club development in meeting
prescribed environmental goals.
The overall environmental goals of the Baker’s Bay Club (BBC) are (EIA, 2004):
1.
2.
3.
4.
To maintain representation of all the natural vegetation communities on the
island.
To maintain water quality parameters in coastal groundwater and near shore marine
waters at pre- construction levels.
To enhance wildlife habitat quality in the coastal zone, wetlands and preserve areas,
with measurable increases in targeted conservation species.
To maintain coastal stability with the measurable maintenance of beaches, and
natural recovery of beaches from storm disturbances.
Monthly highlights: Describe the major progresses made by the Environmental
Management Team (EMT), updates related to the Environmental Management Plan
(EMP) and Environmental Monitoring Program (EMPr). Note any field excursions or data
gatherings or finished analyses.
Work progress: Describe projects in progress, being developed or being completed.
Preliminary results: Describe any results related to the EMP or EMPr (e.g. waste
disposal, environmental monitoring results, surveys/workshops conducted. Also note if
any incident reports were filed and incident number.
Upcoming activities: Describe any planned activities in the near future.
Photographs: Digital or hard copies of photos of field excursions.
Literature cited:
79
Appendix 11. Outline of the Baker’s Bay Club Integrated Pest Management Plan.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan
The IPM for BBC’s will take a proactive approach to abating insects and pests on the
property and in residential areas. The IPM will address the following areas:
1. Biting Insects outdoors and outdoor recreation areas.
a) maintenance practices to reduce mosquito/sand fly breeding cycles;
b) Eliminating the risk of importing exotic mosquitoes and potential disease vectors;
c) Smoke, CO2 traps, options in biodegradable pesticides and other outside mosquito
deterrents (NO ORGANOCHLORIDES); and
d) Guest education, culture and preparation for the island environment- this section will
outline all possible pest hazards like scorpions and centipedes.
2. Inside pests:
a) waste management and control of rats (preventing new rats, trapping existing
population now threatening wildlife);
b) Internal insect pest control - include interior design options, cleaning practices, use of
borax crystals in food areas; and
c) termite prevention,
3. Use of environmentally friendly products in industrial and home use:
a) Acceptable cleaning products - orange oil products, vinegar, Toms of Maine for
personal use. Biodegradable products going down the drain.
4. Pets, feral animals and wildlife.
80

environmental management program baker`s

Transcription

Similar documents

Coastal Highway from Tmn Perling to Horizon Hills is Opened!

information

ACH Loan Payment Authorization

gouPosraroil wt? rnoredient (eL

Climate Change Capacity Workshop Arasha Resort, Ecuador

Our Brochure - Coastal Realty Connection

Artic King Crab flyer

Untitled - 98.7 The Coast

The New Brunswick Coastal Areas Protection Policy